Chapter 1344:


    The threat prated Laurence’s confusion. He blinked up at her, bewilderment washing across his features. Someone dared threaten him? Who was this woman blocking his path to his grandson?


    The connection severed in his mind—Kiley transformed into a stranger, her identity as his granddaughter evaporating.


    Maia’s voice sliced through the tension, crystal clear. “Ms. Cooper, I trust you haven’t forgotten the terms of our arrangement.”


    She closed the distance between them, each step measured. “Since you’ve requested that I set an example, perhaps you could allow Mr. Laurence Cooper to restfortably and spend time with his grandson?”


    Her eyes flicked toward Chris before returning to Kiley, sweetness coating her words. “That would give me a moment to prepare something truly worthy. I’d value your guidance, Ms. Cooper—what sort of item would create the most impact at auction?”


    Shock rippled through the audience once more.


    Maia’s words sounded reasonable on the surface, yet beneath them lurked subtle implications.


    More intriguing still, she appeared to be granting Kiley the power to dictate the donation.


    Whispers erupted anew, spreading quickly through the crowd.


    “An arrangement? What kind of deal exists between Kiley and Maia?”


    “Does Maia already know this Chris Cooper? Why does she seem connected to the Cooper family?”


    “This evening keeps delivering surprises. The visionary behind Annie Crystal and the force driving Radiant Jewels—what a fascinatingbination they make.”


    Kiley stood frozen, blindsided. She’d never imagined Maia would pivot this direction.


    Convention dictated a polite refusal or the offer of something trivial—a token gesture to satisfy appearances.


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    But Maia operated outside convention, presenting herself as willing to offer anything within reason.


    “You’re genuinely asking for my input?” Kiley’s tone danced with mockery, testing the waters. “Aren’t you terrified I’ll demand the moon?”


    Maia feigned a look of sudden realization. “Naturally, I’d be terrified. If you suggested auctioning Aurora Apparel Company itself, I’d have to refuse—I couldn’t possibly auction Aurora.” A smile bloomed as she spread her hands in helpless admission. “But as you so astutely observed, my fashion and jewelry designsmand considerable attention. Let’s select something from that particr domain.”


    For Maia, such a concession barely registered as loss. Her imagination overflowed with designs—an endless wellspring of creativity.


    Something prickled at Kiley’s instincts, though she couldn’t immediately identify the source. It felt as though Maia had executed a strategic retreat, channeling the donation into territory she controlled.


    Recognition dawned. Kiley’s eyes narrowed to slits as she realized Maia had deployed her cleverness again, redirecting the conversation with precision. Yet perhaps Maia had overlooked something crucial in her calctions.


    Kiley’s gaze settled on Maia, triumph curling at the corners of her mouth. “You’re truly giving me free rein? Then I won’t hold back.”


    Meanwhile, Maia had already reached Laurence and crouched before him.


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