Rebirth Revenge Is Everything (Ariana) novel Chapter 536

Georgia frowned and quickly explained, "But Ariana didn't show any hostility. I think she's already forgiven Jane." As she spoke, she grew more convinced of her own words and continued with renewed vigor, "If anything, Gilbert, it's you who should reconsider. Jane genuinely regrets her actions. Can't you forgive her just this once and give her another chance?"

Gilbert's expression darkened momentarily.

Thinking he might be concerned about Ariana's feelings, Georgia hastily added, "I've subtly tested Ariana several times—she isn't angry at all. Motherhood must have softened her heart. She understands now."

A bitter laugh escaped Gilbert's lips.

"Since when did Ariana ever forgive her?" he retorted sarcastically, unsure whether his wife was truly oblivious or deliberately turning a blind eye. Couldn't she sense the icy chill in Ariana's demeanor earlier?

Even if—by some impossible stretch—Ariana had forgiven Jane, he never would. Jane had nearly ruined the company, trampling upon years of his affection and trust. For her sake, he had even allowed a rift to grow between himself and Ariana. Everything—every sacrifice—had been for her.

And how had she repaid him? By weaponizing his love against him.

Gilbert refused to acknowledge such a niece.

He had done more than enough for his late brother's sake. If his brother knew the truth, he would understand. Jane was a grown woman now; she alone must bear the consequences of her actions.

As her uncle, he had fulfilled every obligation. Even in death, he could face his brother with a clear conscience.

Georgia opened her mouth to protest, but Gilbert cut her off.

"This is the last time, Georgia," he said wearily. "The very last time I'll say this. If you bring it up again, we're through. I'm exhausted." With that, he closed his eyes briefly, then turned to leave the study. The matter of succession was already settled—Ariana would inherit the company.

And if, after his passing, Ariana proved unable to lead White Corporation, he would liquidate his shares and ensure she received the proceeds.

At that point, the White Corporation could appoint a new chairman.

He would absolutely have no objections.

The board members had finally quieted down upon hearing this. They exchanged uneasy glances, no longer pressing Gilbert to declare an heir. Instead, after his statement, the directors immediately began fawning over him—after all, he still held a significant portion of the company's shares.

If he truly decided to sell off his stake, whoever acquired those shares would undoubtedly become the next chairman.

This realization sent Nicholas into a panic.

He never expected his brother to make such a drastic move. Even if it meant selling the shares to an outsider, Gilbert would rather let a non-family member take over than allow Nicholas to seize control. The thought left Nicholas fuming for days.

Of course, the one who suffered the most in all this was Gilbert himself.

And the root of this disaster? Jane.

If not for what she had done years ago, the White family wouldn’t have fallen into such disarray.

He wouldn’t be in this precarious position within the company. He would never forgive Jane—never. Not the niece he had once treated as his own daughter, only for her to betray him.

Meanwhile, Georgia stood frozen in shock.

Her eyes followed her husband’s retreating figure, her lips trembling in disbelief. After a few stunned seconds, she managed to choke out, "W-what did you just say?"

"We should be going," Lambert continued smoothly. "Ariana has prior engagements. We'll visit again soon. I've brought some gifts—hopefully to your and Mother's liking. If not, they'd make decent presents for others."

Another nod from Gilbert. His gaze lingered briefly on his two grandsons, a flicker of complicated emotion crossing his features before he turned to study his daughter.

Ariana stood motionless, her eyes pools of silent contemplation. Though she uttered not a single word, Gilbert could almost hear the whirlwind of thoughts behind that composed facade.

With a quiet sigh, he stepped closer to the couple. "Next time," he said, his voice softer now, "bring all three children with you."

Lambert inclined his head in acknowledgment.

Although Lambert didn't particularly care for Ariana's blatantly biased parents, he maintained a decent attitude toward them—after all, they were still his in-laws. But his courtesy was merely perfunctory. He had never forgotten how Ariana's eyes had dimmed with hurt and self-mockery when her father had once proposed splitting the company shares equally between her and her two cousins.

Thus, Lambert's demeanor toward them was one of cool, detached respect.

But today, his father-in-law was acting unexpectedly different.

And indeed, Gilbert was not his usual self.

After studying the couple for a moment, he turned to Lambert and said solemnly, "I'm entrusting Ariana to you. Lambert, don't let me down. If my daughter ever suffers any grievances, I won’t let you off easy."

The words struck Ariana like a bolt from the blue, pulling her abruptly from her silence.

Lambert, too, arched an eyebrow in surprise. He studied this unfamiliar version of his father-in-law, pausing briefly before responding with a faint smile, "You have my word. Never in this lifetime."