From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life novel Chapter 358

**TITLE: Her Rise 358**

**Chapter 358 Late-Night Melody**

In recent weeks, Zaden had made his stance unmistakably clear: he had no desire to rekindle his relationship with Maya. It was painfully evident that he had moved on, yet Maya remained ensnared in her own dreams, clinging to the hope that he might one day turn back to her, as if she were the only one in a world that had already forgotten him.

Athena, however, was beginning to grasp the necessity of changing her perspective. Perhaps the chapter between Zaden and Maya had long since closed. Perhaps it was finally time for her to let her guard down and offer Zaden a genuine opportunity to explore what they could become together.

She had already secured Teri’s DNA sample, but Maya’s was still eluding her grasp.

Once she obtained it, she would send both samples off for testing. When the truth was finally unveiled, she envisioned sitting down with Zaden, engaging in a heartfelt conversation that would lay everything bare.

This time, she was determined not to retreat at the first hint of difficulty.

Zaden had opened his heart to Athena, hoping she would reciprocate that trust—sharing her innermost thoughts without hesitation, without fear.

He could sense the shadows of something unspoken lingering between them, a hesitance that made her uncertain about the foundation of their relationship.

Whether it was related to Maya or something else entirely, he craved to hear her truth.

That was the reason for his earlier candidness, even though it hadn’t unfolded as he had envisioned.

Yet, Athena remained silent.

The only solace was that she appeared more at ease now, her demeanor less troubled by the specter of Maya.

They sat together in a comfortable silence, the air filled with a tranquil stillness that felt almost sacred.

From the neighboring villa, the soft, haunting notes of a piano wafted through the air once more. Athena’s thoughts drifted back to the present, and she turned to Zaden, her curiosity piqued. “Maya’s clearly pouring her heart into that piano for you. Should we go see what she’s up to?”

Zaden chuckled softly, a low sound that resonated with a hint of amusement. “Why bother with someone who no longer holds any significance in my life?”

With that, he crossed the room and pulled the curtains shut with a decisive motion, effectively blocking out the view.

Athena felt a small smile tug at the corners of her lips.

Perhaps Maya’s little scheme was on the verge of unraveling.

Meanwhile, in her own space, Maya continued to lose herself in the music, fingers dancing over the keys with an intensity that spoke of longing and nostalgia.

From the corner of her eye, she stole glances toward Zaden’s villa, aware of the curtain’s slight movement earlier. Yet, she feigned indifference, determined to maintain her composure.

As time passed without any sign of acknowledgment from him, her impatience grew, and she peeked again, only to find the curtains firmly closed.

A frown creased Maya’s brow, irritation bubbling beneath the surface. There was no way Zaden could listen to this melody and remain indifferent.

“No,” Teri pouted, clearly annoyed. “The piano lady next door is so loud! My head’s gonna explode.”

Athena blinked in surprise.

She took a moment to listen closely, and sure enough, the persistent music from the neighboring villa was still echoing vibrantly.

Maya had truly been playing this entire time?

Athena had to admit, the woman possessed an unwavering determination—but it was getting late.

Did Maya intend to play through the night? The rest of them needed their rest, especially Teri, who was still on the mend.

Resolute, Athena straightened up and said, “Stay right here; I’m going to find your dad.”

Teri nodded obediently, her eyes still sparkling with youthful energy.

Athena left the room, her footsteps purposeful as she made her way to the study. She knocked softly on the door. “Come in,” Zaden’s voice called from within.

Pushing the door open, she found Zaden seated at his desk, engrossed in the glow of his laptop screen, fingers flying over the keyboard as he immersed himself in his work.

Leaning against the doorframe, Athena took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. “Teri says Maya’s being too loud. She’s been playing for hours now. You should probably check on her—otherwise, her hands might give out.”