?Chapter 388:


    The repercussions for Hurst’s business ventures were unfathomable. Rosanna dug her nails into her palms, overwhelmed by a surge of jealousy.


    She finally understood everything.


    Maia was seemingly slipping into the life Rosanna had coveted for so long.


    The esteemed role of a wealthy wife that Rosanna had long desired was being effortlessly granted to Maia.


    What secrets did Maia possess that allowed her to ensnare so many suitors?


    Rosanna felt a burning indignation; she couldn’t stand by and watch. She resolved that Maia would not outshine her. She was determined to tear down what Maia had not rightfully earned.


    With a glint of dark resolve, Rosanna clenched her jaw. She was determined to strip Maia of her facade, disgrace her publicly, and unveil her true character to Hurst.


    Taking a moment, Rosanna drew in a deep breath, managed to craft a smile tinged with irony on her lips, and assumed a look of one grievously wronged before all the attendees.


    “Maia had it all from the start — born into privilege, never needing to strive for anything. In contrast, I emerged from poverty, scrabbling for every scrap to merely survive. Fate dealt us a harsh hand when everything shifted. I understand why Maia feared myeback. It would threaten thefortable existence she never appreciated. That’s why she set me up four years ago. Even now, she contests me at every turn. It’s just human nature, I guess.”


    As Rosanna’s eyes brimmed with tears, she discreetly dabbed them away, eliciting a wave of empathy from the onlookers.


    “Human nature? That sounds more like sheer envy and poor character!”


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    “Miss Morgan, you’re too gracious! Despite all she’s done, you still defend her? I’d have severed ties long ago if I were in your shoes.”


    “Didn’t Maia wreck Rosanna’s engagement party? To brazenly snatch another’s betrothed… What sort of person acts that way?”


    “Marrying such a scheming, malicious individual might justpel us to reconsider our partnerships with Hurst.”


    The murmurs escted in volume, drawing the attention of udius, who was mingling not far off. He furrowed his brow and cast a look toward Maia, lounging nonchntly on a sofa, seemingly oblivious to the gossip weaving around her.


    Maia remained impervious to the whispers that buzzed around her like bothersome flies.


    udius, observing from a distance, noted Maia’s aloof manner, which oddly reminded him of his cousin, Chris.


    Initially, Maia had no intention of engaging with Rosanna or the crowd; their opinions meant little to her. However, realizing the potential repercussions these rumors might have on Hurst, her demeanor subtly changed.


    Hurst had extended this invitation in good faith, and Maia couldn’t bear the thought of her presence causing him any harm.


    With a resigned sigh, she massaged her temples, stretched with feigned nonchnce, and rose to her feet. Facing Rosanna, she showed a deliberate, mocking smile. “Rosanna, if you wanted to be embarrassed, you should have just asked. Who is this charade really for?”


    Caught off guard, Rosanna stammered, her cheeks reddening. “I was just speaking truthfully! Did I strike a nerve? Or are you actually suggesting you can y the piano?”


    “Ridiculous.”


    Without sparing Rosanna another nce, Maia scanned the curious, gossipy faces in the crowd. She didn’t bother exining anything. Instead, she casually turned and walked toward the stage.


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