Dead at Heart (Ariel and Jayson) novel Chapter 773

Anyone could tell there would be consequences for the stunt certain board members had pulled during the recent board meeting.

When Jayson arrived at the office, he happened to run into Shane, who was there on business.

Shane instinctively averted his gaze before glancing at Jayson. "Jayson, are you feeling better now?"

Jayson entered the elevator. "Thanks for your concern. I've pretty much achieved full recovery."

"I didn't get the chance to visit you at the hospital. I've been really busy lately. I hope you don't mind."

Shane spoke as if nothing had happened during Jayson's absence.

Jayson turned the wedding ring on his finger slowly. His tone was flat. "I understand how busy you are, of course. After all, it must be difficult to gain more power and secure more projects when I'm around."

The smile on Shane's face froze, and a cold glint flashed in his eyes.

Jayson acted as if he hadn't noticed. His calm voice carried a subtle edge. "You might not be up to date with what's been happening at headquarters, Shane. For example, there are quite a few board members who've made no contribution to the company whatsoever. Don't you think it's time we dealt with such pests?"

Shane's expression stiffened. Several of those board members were part of his faction. Yet what Jayson was implying now was clear.

Jayson gave a low chuckle. "I don't appreciate people who pledge loyalty elsewhere when they should be working for me. I'm not a generous or forgiving man, either. Any suggestions, Shane?"

Shane's composure faltered. Jayson's words weren't an invitation for advice—they were a warning. A declaration of war.

As the elevator neared Jayson's floor, he glanced at the screen. "Your work in Isbell must have piled up by now. I think it's time for you and your parents to head back there."

Though Jayson's tone remained even, his words were ruthlessly sharp. Shane's face darkened.

"Jayson, Grandma's getting older. It doesn't feel right for us to stay so far away from home and from her. Is this really necessary?"

Meanwhile, Toby drove Ariel to the clubhouse near Faye Technologies' building.

As soon as she stepped out of the car and approached the entrance, she spotted Janice hurrying toward her.

Janice grabbed her arm anxiously. "Are you sure it's alright for you to be out already? You just had surgery! Shouldn't you rest for a few more weeks?"

Ariel gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. "I managed to push through when the illness was at its worst. Now that I'm recovering, this is nothing."

She genuinely felt more at ease now that she no longer had to worry about sudden attacks from her illness.

Still, Janice frowned and held onto Ariel's arm carefully, as though she were made of glass.

Ariel found her friend's protectiveness amusing and simply let her fuss. However, a far more crucial matter demanded attention that day. She looked at Janice. "Shall we celebrate your birthday tonight?"