Rising from the Ashes The Heiress They Tried to Erase Novel

Chapter 891: Pinching the bridge of her nose, Maia tightened her coat around herself and stepped out of the car. A cool gust of wind greeted her as she exited, causing her to sneeze softly. "The air's cooler up here in the mountains. Nights really do feel different than in the city," said Chris. Without a second thought, he slipped off his coat and settled it over Maia's shoulders. Looking at her, he added, "I already asked them to bring out the soup first. Be sure to try some." Pattie couldn't help but feel like an extra wheel.

She was one of the select few who knew Chris and Maia were legally married, which made her presence feel even more awkward. Still, since she was there, she figured that she might as well enjoy a good meal. After clearing her throat, Pattie slipped her arm through Maia's. "Come on, Maia. I'm starving, and I'm dying to find out if this chef lives up to the hype." Maia threw a glance Chris's way, then grinned and started chatting with Pattie as they walked ahead. Not far off, Maxwell had just shown up.

He spotted Chris standing there by himself and almost burst out laughing, but managed to keep a straight face. Maxwell stepped up beside him. "Come on, man. Everything's set just like you asked." The corridor whispered with the rustle of leaves as Maxwell led the group through its shadowed embrace, guiding them into the private club he had secured for the evening. The air shifted, warm and inviting, as they stepped inside. The club's interior gleamed with understated elegance. Polished wood paneling caught the soft glow of amber lights, casting a golden sheen across the room.

The faint scent of cedar mingled with the crisp night air drifting in from the landscaped gardens, where water trickled over smooth stones, blending seamlessly with the darkness outside. It was a scene plucked from a dream-serene and almost too perfect. As they settled into plush chairs, servers glided forward, bearing trays laden with dishes that steamed and shimmered in the low light. The table soon overflowed with vibrant plates, their spices weaving a heady aroma that teased the senses.

These weren't just local specialties of Wront; the spread boasted flavors from distant corners of the world, each dish a small masterpiece. ⲅν﹒ⅽ Pattie's eyes widened as she surveyed the feast, her fork hovering midair. "Good heavens, Maxwell!" she exclaimed, leaning forward, her voice bright with astonishment. "Maia and I barely mentioned these dishes in passing, and you remembered every single one? You even got the chefs to whip them up ahead of time.

Not a single thing's missing!" Maxwell's lips twitched, but before he could respond, his gaze flicked to Chris, who sat calmly slicing a piece of grilled pepper. He didn't dare take credit and quickly cleared his throat to explain, "Just to clarify, I can't remember the names of all those dishes. Chris jotted them down and sent me the list while we were on the way. I just passed it to the chefs." Pattie's head swiveled to Chris, her grin widening. "Chris, you're a marvel! What a memory!" She nudged Maia playfully, her tone teasing.

"Someone's got a knack for details, wouldn't you agree, Maia?" Maia's lips curved into a faint smile, her eyes catching Chris's across the table. Amusement danced in her gaze, unspoken but unmistakable. "Very thoughtful, Chris," she said softly. . . .