Rebirth Revenge Is Everything (Ariana) novel Chapter 605

Perhaps it was the weight of years, but Gilbert no longer placed much importance on his career these days.

Instead, his thoughts often drifted to the past.

Like the memories of little Ariana, so small back then. It pained him deeply that he had missed so much of her childhood—a regret that gnawed at his heart. Now, well into his later years, he had no grand ambitions left. All he wanted was to have his children and grandchildren close.

The thought of his three bright, lively, and utterly adorable grandsons brought a tender warmth to his eyes, his smile softening with affection.

But Georgia felt nothing of the sort.

Having just encountered Kendra again, she had been yanked out of the comforting illusions she had spun for herself, forced once more to confront the mistakes of her past. The truth that Ariana was not Gilbert’s child had always been a source of terror and guilt for her. Over the years, she had buried it deep, numbing herself with layers of self-deception.

Now, with Kendra’s reappearance, the memories came flooding back.

Watching Gilbert’s beaming face, Georgia couldn’t suppress the unease coiling inside her.

She glanced at him briefly, forcing a weak smile. "Whatever you decide will be fine. I trust your judgment… It’s just—I haven’t been feeling well lately. Maybe it’s best if you go alone to the banquet. I wouldn’t want to faint in front of everyone. That would be… embarrassing."

The joy on Gilbert’s face froze. Then, slowly, his smile faded.

Georgia’s heart raced, but she kept her expression carefully composed.

Gilbert studied her for a moment before frowning. "Out with it. Did you say something to Ariana again? Another argument?" He could think of no other explanation. Her excuse was flimsy at best. Even if she truly were unwell, the birthday celebration was still days away.

How could she possibly know she’d still be sick by then?

Clearly, she was making excuses. And there was only one reason she would…

It must be another conflict between her and Ariana again.

This thought instantly soured Gilbert's mood, replacing his earlier cheer with irritation. In the past, he might have suppressed his longing for his grandsons. But now, as he grew older, he found himself missing those three boys more than ever. Even in his dreams, he often saw them chasing each other around the house, laughing on the sofa while he watched them with a beaming smile.

Just when it seemed Ariana had finally rekindled her bond with Georgia, and the mother-daughter relationship was gradually healing—here they were, back to square one!

Who wouldn’t be frustrated?

In truth, Georgia regretted her excuse the moment it left her lips. She knew it was flimsy, but she couldn’t backtrack now without making Gilbert suspect yet another rift between her and Ariana.

She bit her lip, watching his furrowed brow, then ventured softly, "Gilbert..."

Gilbert met her gaze in silence. "Just say what’s on your mind," he replied flatly. He couldn’t fathom what could possibly have driven another wedge between his wife and daughter this time.

The succession plan for the White Group had long been settled.

Everything else had been handled, too.

Seeing that Gilbert hadn’t reacted to Ariana with the anger she’d hoped for, Georgia frowned slightly. But she didn’t dare push further, afraid he might notice something off. After all, Gilbert was the chairman of a major corporation—his perception wasn’t something to underestimate.

So she bit her tongue, though her head throbbed with frustration.

What now? she wondered. Should she try to reclaim Irene as her own? Kendra had adopted her child—did that mean her sister still held some affection for her, despite everything? If nothing else, Georgia trusted Kendra’s character.

No matter how furious Kendra might have been about what happened back then, she would never take it out on Irene.

At this thought, Georgia immediately felt relieved.

Better to take it slow and figure out what to do next. And as for Ariana... she'd have to deal with that too.

...

The Harper family was a renowned aristocratic dynasty, especially within S City.

Though their influence had waned somewhat in recent years, they could still hold their own for decades to come.

Even now, the Harper family remained a juicy piece of meat that everyone coveted.

Meanwhile, Nathan stood silently, watching Flora sob hysterically before him. His brow furrowed slightly—her behavior was hardly befitting of a well-bred lady. But Flora was beyond caring. Her eyes bloodshot, she glared at Nathan and cried, "What am I supposed to do then? I'm carrying your child! If you refuse to marry me, will you condemn our baby to be born a bastard?"