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Chapter 146
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A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 147
Ariana was forced into her seat. Evelyn gazed between her and Victor."It seems you two are close. No wonder Mr. Smith entrusted you to contact me." Evelyn smiled, masking her discomfort by sipping her water.Victor ignored her. And now that Ariana had been brought over, Evelyn's displeasure only grew.Ariana could sense Evelyn's annoyance. Knowing Evelyn, Ariana was certain she wouldn't want to embarrass herself. Ariana turned her focus back to Victor. "Mr. Smith, Ms. Granger is interested in collaborating with you. Summoning me here like this doesn't seem very appropriate..."Ariana tried to stand up. But Victor pressed her back into the chair.Ariana felt speechless.Victor remained unfazed. "Since you're the one who arranged this meeting, it's only natural for you to be here." Then, he turned to Evelyn. "Don't you agree, Ms. Granger?""…You're right, Mr Smith." Evelyn's expression betrayed her emotions.Anyone could see that Evelyn was merely playing along to avoid
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Ariana stared at Victor in disbelief. He must be doing this on purpose. Was he deliberately making things harder for her?Evelyn already resented Ariana and felt her anger boil over. She had been invited to this meeting, yet Victor hadn't even bothered ordering for her. What was he hinting at?"Server! Three beef steaks and three glasses of red wine! Make it quick!" Ariana called out loudly, breaking the tension.Thankfully, she reacted swiftly. Otherwise, the situation would have become awkward when only two plates were served."Mr. Smith, if you want that piece of land from the Granger family, you can take it anytime," Evelyn said as she produced a land transfer agreement. Ariana was well aware that Evelyn had inherited some assets from her family. However, she hadn't expected Evelyn to go as far as gifting a piece of land to win Victor over.That plot stretched for a few miles in the heart of the city and was worth a fortune. Yet Evelyn was ready to give it away just like tha
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Before Ariana could finish, Evelyn interrupted, "It seems Ms. Torrey and Mr. Smith are close. I thought you were trying to help me connect with him, but it turns out you were just toying with me!""Ms. Granger…" Ariana began."Since Mr. Smith has no interest in working together, there's no need for further discussion!" With that, Evelyn snatched the land transfer agreement from the table and stormed out.Ariana's expression darkened at Victor. "Victor Smith, what is wrong with you?"Victor took a sip of his wine. "Didn't I already make my stance clear?""I went out of my way to help you get the land, and you not only ruined the deal but also drove her away! Do you seriously not want that piece of land?" Ariana fumed."You're right. I don't want it," Victor replied nonchalantly."You!" Ariana was infuriated.Victor calmly continued cutting into his steak. "The steak here is quite good. Would you like to try some, Ms. Torrey?""I'm too angry to eat!" Ariana had never met anyone
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 150
A phone rang inside Lodge Co.Brian glanced at his phone on the desk and saw it was a call from Ariana.Brian instinctively wanted to answer. But just as his hand reached out, he stopped.Answering so quickly would make him seem too eager. He couldn't let Ariana think she could manipulate him.He recalled how he had ignored her calls countless times before. So, now, he decided to leave her hanging for a moment.Finally, just as the ringing was about to stop, he picked up the call and feigned impatience. "What do you want?"There was no response from the other side, only the faint sound of car engines in the background.Brian frowned. "Ariana?"A second later, the call was abruptly cut off.Brian's frown deepened and he returned the call. But this time, the phone was turned off.His expression darkened. He called for Emily. "Emily, come in!""Yes, Mr. Lodge?" Emily entered, only to see Brian grabbing his coat. "What's going on?""Find out where Ariana has been today," Brian
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Evelyn's smile froze as the thought crossed her mind. "I… I don't know either. But Ms. Torrey is an adult. She wouldn't just disappear suddenly, right?"Seeing that Evelyn had no idea where Ariana was, Brian sighed. "It's late. I'll have the driver take you home.""Brian!" Evelyn hesitated, seeing how eager Brian was to leave. "Are you… worried about Ms. Torrey?""She is still my fiancée and is part of the Lodge family. If something happens to her, I wouldn't know how to explain it to my grandmother." With that, Brian got into his car without another word.Evelyn's expression turned unpleasant.Was that really the reason? Or could it be… that he started to care for Ariana?Evelyn didn't voice her thoughts.In any case, she needed to figure out a way to ensure Brian wouldn't fall for Ariana.Remembering Ariana was with Victor earlier, Evelyn couldn't help but take out her phone and call Victor.The call was quickly answered, but the voice on the other end wasn't Victor's. It wa
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 152
Ariana was disgusted by Igor's friends.A woman's greatest fear was losing her reputation? Ariana found it laughable.This was nothing more than the vulgar thinking of despicable men!Ariana always knew Igor was a scumbag, but she never thought he would stoop so low as to resort to kidnapping.Igor hesitated. "Ariana is going to marry Mr. Lodge. What if something really happens?""Don't worry, Igor. I don't buy into that nonsense about women staying pure for a man. Besides, who would dare bring up this incident? Unless… Your sister doesn't want to marry Mr. Lodge anymore!"Everyone in Gleaston knew Brian was possessive, whether it was toward his things or person.If Ariana were tainted, Brian would surely reject her.Igor gave in. "As long as we can force her to hand over Torrey Co., do whatever you want.""Don't worry, Igor. Leave it to me!" One of his friends stepped forward. Igor didn't want to be involved and stepped aside. Meanwhile, the other two also approached Ariana
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Seeing Ariana cooperating, the man eagerly moved closer to her.But Ariana frowned. "Hey! Why are you being so rough? I'm shy about being watched. How about… We go behind the trees and have some fun?"Ariana's sultry voice and seductive gaze entranced the three men. They were too captivated to stay cautious.The man nodded. "Sure! Let's go behind the trees!""But if we're going to play, shouldn't you untie the rope around my ankles? Otherwise, how can I join in the fun?" Noticing their hesitation, Ariana pouted and added, "Come on, my hands are still tied. What are you afraid of? Besides, where could I possibly run with the three of you here?"Her reasoning seemed convincing, and the man quickly untied the rope around her ankles.Ariana's eyes shone triumphantly.Once her ankles were free, Ariana leaned into the man's arms and whispered seductively, "Let's go where they can't see us, okay?"The man was enchanted and quickly led Ariana deeper into the woods. He even moved furthe
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 154
The three quickly ran back to check on their unconscious friend's injuries.Igor was furious and threw his cigarette pack to the ground. He barked, "Get her back! Now!"He was doomed if the Lodge family found out about this!Meanwhile, Victor arrived at Gleaston University. Beside him, Hunter reported, "According to the street surveillance, this is where she vanished. Should we request access to the campus cameras?""There's no time. Start searching immediately," Victor ordered."Yes, sir." Hunter quickly led a group into the campus to begin their search.At the same time, Brian's car pulled up outside Gleaston University.When Brian stepped out, he immediately noticed Victor entering the campus grounds. His expression darkened.Emily asked, "Mr. Lodge, why is Mr. Smith here too?"It had taken them a long time to trace Ariana to the sports car that had entered Gleaston University, but how had Victor ended up here as well?"Go check it out," Brian instructed coldly."Yes, sir
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A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 192
Brian was stunned when he saw Ariana in her bold punk outfit—a short jacket, a cropped top baring her midriff, and tight black denim shorts. To complete the bold look, Ariana even wore black stockings.Those long legs would turn heads wherever she went, and her hourglass figure was impossible to ignore.Brian asked, "Why are you dressed like that?"He still remembered how Ariana used to dress in her elegant and modest tweed dresses, exuding the grace of a lady from a respectable family.But she was utterly different today."Well, I actually prefer dressing in this style. It's quite cool and comfortable," she said, deliberately adding a hint of flirtiness to her tone as she stepped closer to Brian.Her ample bosom was faintly visible beneath the thin straps of her top, like a hint of snow peeking through a frosted window. Her long hair cascaded over one shoulder, adding to her allure. Her every movement was hypnotic, her smooth skin and soft, supple waist inviting thoughts one s
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Finally, Brian could no longer hold back his frustration and swung the door open. He strode toward the room with the light on inside.Did Ariana not know it was nighttime? Who would choose to have renovations this late and disturb everyone's peace?"Ariana! You—"Brian stopped abruptly as he saw Ariana perched on a ladder, drilling something with an electric drill.There were no renovation workers in the room.With music blasting from a pair of headphones, Ariana was completely oblivious to Brian's presence.Noticing her phone on the desk nearby, Brian walked over without hesitation and paused her music.Ariana's world instantly fell silent."Why did my Bluetooth disconnect?" she muttered, puzzled, while taking off her headphones.Suddenly, Brian's voice roared from below, "Ariana! Get down here right now!"His words startled her so much that her foot slipped. Both she and the ladder tipped backward.Brian instinctively tried to dodge, but the ladder came crashing down squar
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 190
Since when did Ariana need someone with gastritis to teach her how to eat?"At night, you can eat less, but you can't skip it entirely. Two meals a day is unhealthy. From now on, whenever I have dinner, you should too," Brian said."Brian, I'm really not used to eating dinner. You're making things difficult," Ariana retorted.He coolly answered, "If you eat dinner every night on schedule, I'll pay you one million dollars a day."Ariana almost thought she misheard him. A million a day? Was he out of his mind?Brian noticed her skeptical look and frowned. "Is that not enough?""How about two million?" Ariana asked, testing the water.She looked up to gauge his reaction. She could tell it was too much."Alright, one million it is," she conceded."Skip dinner even once, and I'll deduct two million. If you eat properly every night for a month, you'll have a guaranteed 30 million."With that, Brian started eating. He preferred mild flavors, and he was extremely picky about food. Ve
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Hearing Emily's words, Brian was momentarily stunned.Had something like that really happened before?He had no memory of it, because in those days he barely paid attention to Ariana or anything she did for him.Hearing this now, Brian found it hard to believe. Had he really been so mean to Ariana in the past and done something so unreasonable?"Mr. Lodge, Ms. Torrey has every right to be upset with you."No one liked having their efforts dismissed, and Ariana was no exception. Emily had noticed her habit of skipping dinner, but Brian, her own fiancé, hadn't.Brian frowned. He lost his appetite.Seeing Brian get up, Emily was about to follow him. But he said, "Postpone tonight's work. You can leave now.""Yes, Mr. Lodge," Emily replied.Brian went upstairs. Ariana was still in that room, casually telling the workers what to do.At some point, she had even donned a cap and was helping out in person. She looked nothing like a pampered socialite, showing none of that usual reser
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 188
"Yes, Mr. Lodge."Emily quickly left to get the exhaust fans.Downstairs, Brian wore a simple white robe and went to check the fridge. There were indeed a few simple dishes waiting, but he could tell at once that Ariana hadn't prepared them.He remembered how Ariana used to make all kinds of creative dishes for him when she stayed at the Lodge residence. She was worried he might lose his appetite.Back then, he would decide whether to eat or not depending on his mood. But now, he had to beg Ariana to cook, and she still refused.He had no desire to eat anymore, so he slammed the fridge door shut.Seeing this, Emily asked, "Mr. Lodge, are these dishes not to your liking?""What do you think?"He clearly looked displeased.Emily was puzzled. It shouldn't be. Brian had always liked Martha's cooking. Why didn't he like it now?"Mr. Lodge, should I order takeout for you?""No need."Brian frowned. "Has Ariana eaten anything tonight?""I believe not.""Tell her to come down and
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 187
Evelyn couldn't just sit and do nothing.She couldn't just watch Ariana seize Brian from her.With that in mind, Evelyn quickly took out her phone and dialed a familiar number."Hello, I want you to come back to the country. I need you to help me with something!"In the evening, Brian returned to the Lodge residence.He found only one lamp switched on in the living room, and the sound of moving furniture was coming from upstairs.Frowning, he asked, "They're still not done?"Emily answered, "Ms. Torrey is quite particular. She's already sent back three batches of furniture this afternoon.""Where is she now?"Emily said uneasily, "She's... probably in there giving instructions.""Giving instructions? What exactly is she instructing?"Brian's face darkened as he headed upstairs, wanting to see what Ariana was playing at.The moment he got to the second floor, a cloud of white dust blew right into him.The worker immediately apologized. "Mr. Lodge, I'm so sorry. Ms. Torrey w
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Might not be true?Evelyn had heard it clearly.Brian had forced a kiss on Ariana, and the Lodge residence was being revamped for her.Thinking of this, Evelyn headed straight to Brian's office.When she reached the door, Emily stepped forward to stop her. "Ms. Granger, Mr. Lodge is in a meeting. He can't see anyone right..."Before Emily could finish, Evelyn pushed the door open.Inside, Brian was wearing a headset and speaking to an international firm via video call. He shot Evelyn a frown for barging in.He swiftly ended the call with a few short words."Eve, I'm working."Evelyn would never have been this impulsive before.Brian put down his headset and looked at her.Evelyn lowered her head and said, "I... I didn't mean to interrupt you.""What's the matter?" Brian asked."I came to pick you up from work," Evelyn replied, forcing a smile that looked incredibly stiff.Brian didn't seem to notice anything unusual about Evelyn's mood. "I've got something going on tonigh
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 185
Brian thought Ariana was hinting at something. He said, "We're engaged. It's perfectly normal for us to share a room. My bed is big enough for three, so if you want...""Mr. Lodge, if you're trying to take responsibility for what happened earlier, there's really no need. I understand you acted on impulse because you were angry. It was just a kiss. I don't care at all."Hearing Ariana's words, Brian thought he must have misheard. "You... You said you don't care at all?""Of course. It's the 21st century. A kiss isn't a big deal. I'm not going to lose sleep over it."Brian was momentarily speechless. Ariana's words made him so angry that he just laughed.So, he was the only one who still cared about it?"You're right. I thought you cared about your chastity more than anything. Looks like I was wrong. Forget what I said before."Brian felt something tighten in his chest. He went upstairs, then stopped halfway, remembering he had come back specifically to talk about their relationsh
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At that moment, Brian's voice came from behind Ariana. "Alright. I agree."Hearing this, Ariana turned around. She hadn't expected him to come back at this moment.She turned too fast and bumped into his chest, banging her nose against the badge on his suit. She stepped back, rubbing her nose. "Mr. Lodge, did you really agree to all that?"From what she remembered, he was never so easy to deal with.Brian said calmly, "What's wrong? Now that I've agreed, you're not happy about it?""If you're on board, of course I'm happy."With that, Ariana acted as though she was afraid he might change his mind. She said to Emily, "You heard it, Ms. Weston. Mr. Lodge is fine with everything. I'll leave the arrangements to you.""Yes, Ms. Torrey."Emily hurried off to prepare Ariana's new room.Ariana looked at Brian. "Mr. Lodge, if there's nothing else, I'd like to go get some rest.""Hold on." Brian suddenly grabbed her arm.Ariana frowned and glanced at his hand, wishing she could slice
