From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life novel Chapter 344

**Her Rise 344: From Betrayal to Brilliance**

**Chapter 344: Ariana’s Apologies**

In that fleeting moment, Ariana found herself utterly at a loss for words. An uncharacteristic silence enveloped her, and she could hardly comprehend the tumult of emotions swirling within. It wasn’t just about Maya; it was something deeper, something she couldn’t quite articulate. Yet, in the depths of her heart, she sensed that Athena was the only one who could tend to her needs. The thought of anyone else doing so felt inherently wrong, like a puzzle piece that simply wouldn’t fit.

This conviction was the reason behind her insistence on Athena’s involvement.

However, she would never allow Zaden to glimpse the vulnerability that lay beneath her stubborn façade. The idea of him laughing at her, of seeing through her defenses, was unbearable.

“I only want her!” Ariana declared, her voice rising with the petulance of a child determined to have her way.

Zaden’s response was immediate and unwavering. “No.” His tone was resolute, the finality of his words leaving no room for negotiation.

Just as tension thickened between them, the ward door swung open, and Athena entered, her presence instantly shifting the atmosphere. The moment she locked eyes with Zaden’s tall silhouette, she halted, caught off guard by his unexpected presence.

Without wasting time, she confronted him directly. “Were you the one who reassigned me?”

Ariana’s heart leaped at the sight of Athena. Turning to her with a newfound urgency, she implored, “Dr. Hall, I realize now that I was wrong to push you away earlier. Please don’t be angry with me and refuse to treat me. Just tell Zaden that you’ll continue as my doctor, please?”

There was a subtle desperation woven into her words, a quiet plea that hinted at her vulnerability.

Athena’s eyes widened in surprise. From their very first encounter, she had understood the complexities of Ariana’s character, the challenges that lay in their relationship. Never had she anticipated an apology from her, yet here it was. Truth be told, Athena hadn’t held onto the incident with any bitterness; their connection was far too intricate for that.

Suppressing her own thoughts, Athena turned her attention back to Zaden. “Zaden, let me continue treating her. I have an entire treatment plan mapped out already. It would be a shame to abandon it midway.”

Zaden’s expression darkened, a shadow of displeasure crossing his features. He had made this decision in Athena’s best interest, yet now it felt as though she was dismantling his efforts right before his eyes, leaving him with a sense of betrayal.

Athena noticed the shift in his demeanor immediately.

She could sense his irritation, yet her resolve remained firm.

Ariana, however, was consumed by guilt. She had treated Athena poorly, yet here was Athena, willing to extend a hand despite the past. Maya had spoken ill of Athena, painting her in a negative light, but now, standing before her, Ariana couldn’t help but reassess her judgments. Perhaps Athena wasn’t the monster she had been led to believe. It was just unfortunate that Athena had once taken her granddaughter’s heart.

**Wed, Nov 20**

**Chapter 344: Ariana’s Apologies**

Athena’s dark, penetrating gaze was fixed on Zaden, silently urging him to reconsider.

Zaden pressed his lips together, a storm of emotions brewing within. Finally, with a resigned sigh, he relented. “Since you’re prepared to take this on, I won’t interfere. But if she causes you pain again, don’t say I didn’t warn you about the decision you made today.”

Ariana, eager to reassure him, quickly interjected, “I won’t! I promise I won’t hurt Dr. Hall again. You have my word.”

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