Chapter 302
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Ariana knew that with Brian’s capabilities, it was only a matter of time before he uncovered her background. If she didn’t take the initiative and seize control of the situation, things could get really dangerous once Brian started piecing things together. Both she and Warto Group could be in trouble.
With that thought, Ariana reluctantly said, “I’ll do my best
“It’s not about doing your best. You have to do it,” William said, patting her shoulder. “This is a make–or–break moment. Think it through carefully.”
“I know. I won’t let him find any loopholes.”
William gave a small nod of acknowledgment.
As Ariana continued surveying her office, William suddenly spoke again.
“Oh, by the way.”
“What now?” Ariana asked, puzzled by his strange behavior today. William wasn’t usually this chatty.
“I heard something really interesting at school today. Want to hear it?”
“No.”
Ariana already had a feeling it would be about her. And most likely, it involved Brian and Fiona too.
“Well, that’s a shame,” William sighed dramatically. “I was going to tell you how your ambitious little cousin has been misleading everyone in class, claiming she’s the Lodge family’s chosen future wife. But since you’re not
interested…”
“Wait. What do you mean by ‘misleading‘?”
Wasn’t it true?
“I thought you weren’t interested?”
Ariana was silent.
William continued casually, “Ariana, you should pay more attention to the people around you. Your countryside cousin’s ambition might be bigger than you realize.”
“Thanks for the kind reminder, but I’m well aware.”
“That’s good to hear.”
William continued, “Well, now that the office tour is done, how about grabbing dinner together before I drop you off?”
Ariana shook her head. “No need. I just moved into my new place and haven’t had time to unpack.”
“1
William raised an eyebrow, as if suddenly remembering something. “Speaking of which, how broke are you right now? Why are you living in that tiny dump?”
Ariana forced a smile. “Apartments around the university are in high demand. The high–end one Brian rented for me was already taken, and I had to move in a hurry. This was the best I could find for now.”
“Those old neighborhoods aren’t safe. I know a few real estate friends–I’ll ask around tonight. If there’s a better place available, I’ll have movers help you relocate in a few days.”
+25 BONUS
Chapter 302
“Oh, that’s really not necessary.”
Despite her words, a smile spread across her face as soon as she said that.
“Of course, you’ll have to pay for it,” William added.
He was always meticulous about money. Ever since she’d known him, she had never managed to get any real benefits from him. But that was fine. Their friendship was built on mutual interests. Everything was clear–cut. No one owed anyone anything. That kind of relationship was the most secure.
That evening, William dropped Ariana off at her apartment complex.
As soon as his car pulled away, she stepped through the gates, only to find several elderly women gathered nearby, their eyes fixed on her.
Ignoring their stares, Ariana walked to her rented apartment–only to find the door slightly open.
Inside, a middle–aged woman in her 40s was rummaging through the cabinets she had just finished organizing.
