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Chapter 96
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A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 97
So, it was perfectly fine for men to cheat, but women were supposed to know their place and be content?What kind of twisted logic is that?"I'll pretend I didn't see what happened today, but you need to take care of it."Then, as if suddenly remembering something, Belinda added, "Oh, and didn't you mention dropping out of school?""Yeah, I did.""Well, since you've already dropped out, there's no point worrying about school anymore. "As the wife of the Lodge family, you'll still get that certificate, whether you go to school or not," Belinda said."But, Mrs. Lodge Senior...""Just do as I say. All you need to focus on is winning Brian's heart. Forget about everything else. Besides, you're practically married now. It would be absurd for you to still be in school." Belinda's tone was commanding.Though Ariana felt a surge of dissatisfaction, she knew she had no choice but to comply.Without Belinda's protection, the Torrey family would be left vulnerable if Brian decided to t
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 98
A sharp slap landed on the maid's face, and she instinctively covered her cheek as her expression darkened.Ariana's eyes narrowed as she glared at the young, beautiful woman before her. "Avery, right?" she sneered. "Since you address me as Ms. Torrey, you should know your place. Who gave you permission to call me by my name?""You!"Avery had been working for the Lodge family for a long time, and because of her good looks, she had always looked down on Ariana.She had seen firsthand how lowly Ariana had been when she first arrived.Ariana remembered how Avery had frequently given her terrible advice, leading her to embarrass herself in front of Brian.Now, seeing Avery act so arrogantly in front of her again, Ariana decided she wouldn't let it slide this time."Ms. Torrey, no matter what happens, I'm still a maid in the Lodge family! Slapping me is the same as slapping Mr. Lodge's face! I'll tell him what you did! You've ruined the clothes Mr. Lodge gave you, so don't be surpri
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 99
"What on earth are you talking about, Mr. Lodge?"Ariana looked at Brian with an innocent expression. "I was in the middle of a perfectly good shower when you barged in. How exactly is that my fault?""You..."Brian's words faltered as he stared at her.Wrapped in a towel, Ariana's long, slender legs were on full display. Her wet hair spilled over one shoulder, and droplets of water clung to her collarbone, creating an undeniably captivating sight.Noticing his intense gaze, Ariana tightened her grip on the towel and asked, "Is there something you need, Mr. Lodge?""Why did you rip the uniform?"Faced with Brian's accusation, Ariana feigned innocence. "Rip what? Mr. Lodge, I have no idea what you're talking about."Brian's voice turned cold. "Don't play dumb, Ariana. What were you trying to prove by tearing the uniform? Was it rebellion? Or were you just trying to get my attention?""Mr. Lodge," Ariana replied, maintaining her act of confusion, "I honestly don't know what you'
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 100
"Your maid is quite interesting," Ariana remarked. "I was only summoned back by Mr. Lodge yesterday. Why would I randomly disable the surveillance? Even though I stayed at the Lodge residence for three months, I'm not one of your family's maids. How would I know where the main power switch is? Besides, you're practically the only one working here today. Why would I, a young lady from a prestigious family, have any reason to frame you?"Avery frantically explained to Brian, "It wasn't me! I swear! Mr. Lodge, I'm being framed!"Brian furrowed his brow in frustration. "Enough!" He was well aware that his household staff had often bullied Ariana behind his back.He'd simply been too lazy to intervene on her behalf, hoping she would give up and leave.But this time, Avery had gone too far."The Lodge family doesn't need employees who behave like this. Go collect your salary for the month. From today onward, you no longer work for the Lodge family," he said coldly.Seeing Brian's f
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 101
"Mr. Lodge, can you at least tell me where we're going now that you've made me change into this outfit?" Ariana murmured. "This isn't something you wear to an ordinary event.""Come with me to the charity gala tonight," Brian replied curtly.Hearing this, Ariana frowned. "Why not take Evelyn instead?""You want me to take Evelyn?" Brian asked, his tone laced with irritation."That's not what I meant. I just think Ms. Granger is a better match for you," Ariana retorted."Ariana, are you trying to push me away?""What do you mean, Mr. Lodge? You and I are just doing this as a business arrangement, and a temporary one at that. It's perfectly normal for us to lead separate lives. Everyone knows you're into Evelyn– it's hardly a secret in our circle. So, why bother taking me to the charity gala?"Every word Ariana said seemed designed to test his limits. Brian's expression turned cold. "Have separate lives, huh?" Seems like you and William are having quite the time.""Not as much
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 102
Evelyn frowned. In the past, she had always accompanied Brian to these kinds of events.This charity gala wasn't just any gathering– it was a major event, and word had it that Victor Smith, the infamous figure from overseas would also be attending.Everyone in Gleaston knew what Victor represented. He had been the undisputed kingpin of underground dealings abroad. Having his support didn't just mean invincibility overseas– it ensured that even within the country, no one dared to stand in your way.Yet, Brian had chosen to bring Ariana to such an important occasion.Bang!Evelyn hurled the glass of water in the hand, her expression dark and stormy."Have they left?" she asked."Yes, Ms. Granger. They've left."Hearing this, Evelyn glanced at her reflection in the mirror. Her makeup was half done, but all she could feel was bitter irony."Ms. Granger, should we… continue with your makeup?"Everyone had assumed Brian would naturally bring Evelyn to the gala. They'd started her m
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 103
Brian thought to himself that once Ariana had enough of being humiliated, she'd come running back to him.Meanwhile, Ariana lifted the hem of her gown and started walking through the hall. She had barely taken a few steps when she overheard a mocking voice nearby. "Well, well. Isn't this Ariana Torrey? Did she walk into the wrong party by mistake?""Doesn't look like it. Who knows what tricks she pulled to get Mr. Lodge to bring her along? Look—he's already left her alone, not even sparing her a glance.""Everyone knows Mr. Lodge only has eyes for Evelyn. She's just embarrassing herself at this point." The snide remarks were loud enough to reach Ariana's ears, but she had no intention of engaging with them.In her previous life, she hadn't attended this gala with Brian, but she'd heard that Victor had been utterly captivated by Evelyn's dance.Ariana had seen Evelyn's dancing before. She was considered decent within this circle, but far from professional. Ariana, however, had
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 104
The two guards exchanged hesitant glances, clearly uncertain."Apologies, Ms. Granger. Why don't you give Mr. Lodge a call? If he comes to escort you personally, we'll be happy to let you in," one of the guards said."You…!" Evelyn couldn't believe the two security guards had the nerve to give her attitude. Left with no choice, she pulled out her phone and dialed Brian's number.The phone rang and rang, but no one picked up. Frustrated, she tried calling Emily next, only to be met with the same result.At that moment, a few ladies walked out from the hall chatting loudly. "Wow, Ariana really knows how to put on a show. Did you see how entranced Mr. Lodge looked while watching her dance?" "I thought Mr. Lodge was completely devoted to Evelyn. Since when did he get so close to Ariana?" "Who knows? Ariana must have some serious tricks up her sleeve. No man can resist a woman throwing herself at him like that." …Their gossip hit Evelyn like a slap, igniting a fresh wave of an
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A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 404
The guests present all took in the scene before them. It was well known that Brian had always despised Ariana, but this time, he appeared visibly anxious about her in front of everyone.Ariana seemed unsurprised by the reactions of the guests around them. She withdrew her hand and said, "Thank you for your help, Mr. Lodge."Brian quickly realized that Ariana had just used him.Due to Lodge Co.'s stance toward Torrey Co., many had assumed that there was tension between the Lodges and Torreys. As a result, few corporate partners had been willing to initiate business dealings with the Torreys.Now that they have seen Brian and Ariana on better terms, many would likely approach the Torrey family."Ariana, did you just exploit me?" Brian had never realized just how cunning Ariana could be. He had always assumed she was clueless, but it was clear that he was the foolish one now."Didn't you say it yourself, Mr. Lodge? Mutual exploitation isn't a bad thing for either of us." Ariana shru
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 403
Ariana didn't refuse. After all, spending more time with Brian in public would be beneficial for the Torrey family."Mr. Lodge, I never expected that just one word from Mrs. Lodge Senior would be enough for you to put your pride aside and come see me," Ariana remarked.Her words dripped with mockery, and there were even some traces of disdain toward Brian. It was the same attitude that he'd used to have toward her.Alas, their roles were reversed."Ariana, do you really think it's a good thing that Grandma has taken an interest in you?" Brian asked.Belinda's intentions were clear to anyone with a sharp eye, and Brian knew that Ariana could tell as well.His eyes roamed over Ariana. Tonight, she was meticulously and elegantly styled in a long, gold-embellished gown. She was the very image of grandeur.When he looked at Ariana from the side, he frowned. Her appearance at the moment overlapped with the image of Susan in his mind.Suddenly, Brian halted in his tracks and firmly
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 402
Hushed whispers filled the surrounding area. Everyone wanted to know why Ariana had been invited to the Lodge family's gala.Inside the Royal Hotel, Emily knocked on the door of the second-floor break room. "Mr. Lodge, all the guests have arrived. We should head down now.""Got it," Brian replied and rubbed the bridge of his nose. The moment he closed his eyes, he could hear Ariana's words from the day before echoing in his mind.If it weren't for Belinda's insistence on hosting this gala, he wouldn't have wanted to see Ariana at all.…Meanwhile, downstairs in the banquet hall, all eyes were on Ariana the moment she appeared.It wasn't because of how extravagantly she was dressed, but rather the fact that she was now the sole heir of the Torrey family. Whoever married Ariana would stand to inherit everything she owned.If anything were to happen to Ariana, all of the Torrey family's assets would go to her husband, so every man in attendance had their eyes locked on her."Arian
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 401
Brian knew exactly what Belinda's words meant. In the past, his engagement with Ariana had been purely due to her suitable family background. But now, marrying her would mean gaining control over the entire Torrey family. At that moment, the things that Ariana said to him earlier today played back in his mind. His sense of pride flared once again. "Grandma, you don't need to concern yourself with this matter. We have already annulled our engagement, and there is no way I'll propose to her again." With that, he turned around and headed upstairs. Belinda was well aware of Brian's character. Her expression darkened. Since he was unwilling to let go of his pride, then she would make the necessary arrangements for him.The next day, the news of Gwen's imprisonment and Igor's expulsion from the Torrey family spread like wildfire within the high society. As the sole heir of the family, Ariana successfully assumed full control of the Torrey family. As the turmoil at school also began
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 400
"Ms. Piper, please follow me.""No! Mr. Lodge, I know you're a kind man. For old time's sake, please save Aunt Gwen!""I believe I already told you not to show up at my home again."Brian's eyes were cold. A single glance was enough to send a chill down Fiona's spine.Evelyn had already spoken to him a few days ago, informing him about the rumors circulating at school about him and Fiona. He was no stranger to the games women played, but he was simply too lazy to deal with it. After all, Fiona had nothing to do with him. Anyone in the right mind would recognize the vast gap in their social standing, and there was no chance they would be together. Those rumors were merely stories that Fiona had fabricated. He absolutely despised scheming women like her. Fiona still didn't know that Brian was already aware of her deeds. She cried, "But Aunt Gwen's imprisonment is also related to the Torrey family. Are you really not going to do anything about it?"Ms. Weston, what did I say earl
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 399
"Then let me make it clear to you, you aren't the heir of the Torrey family, and you aren't my father's son. From a legal standpoint, you and your mother have nothing to do with our family. You'd better accept the fact, Mr. Igor."Ariana's voice was full of mockery. In her past life, she had foolishly handed over the company Carson left behind to Gwen and Igor. But in the end, the company went bankrupt in less than three years. Worse yet, Gwen had even fled with Igor and John.This time, she swore she would never give Gwen and Igor the slightest chance to entangle themselves with Torrey Co. "Take him away." Ariana's voice was cold.The bodyguard swiftly grabbed Igor and dragged him toward the front gate. Still wearing his slippers, Igor was ruthlessly dragged out of the Torrey residence, unable to resist."Pack up all of Igor and Gwen's things and toss them out.""Yes, Ms. Torrey."To prevent Igor from making a fuss, Ariana deliberately stationed him at the security post by the e
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 398
It was already evening, and Igor had been waiting at home for Arian's call, but it never came. It wasn't until he saw a car from Torrey Co. pull up outside the gate that he immediately rushed out. The moment he saw Ariana get out of the car, he immediately snapped, "Why didn't you answer my call? Do you even know what has happened at home? Hurry up and come with me to the police station to bail my mom out!" Igor spoke in a commanding tone as he grabbed Ariana's hand and dragged her in the direction of the police station. But to his surprise, she pushed him away. Caught off guard by her move, Igor stared at her in disbelief. He sneered, "Ariana! Have you lost your mind? How dare you push me?" Igor had always had his way and never expected that Ariana would dare push him away.Just as he was about to grab Ariana again, Miranda stepped forward. With a simple move, she easily restrained Igor, rendering him unable to resist. "Ms. Ziegler! Have you lost your mind too? How dare you
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 397
Looking over the money and goods in his possession, Jeremy nodded in satisfaction. He left the Torrey residence with his group of lackeys.Gwen's legs finally gave out and she collapsed onto the floor. She had only borrowed money from the loan sharks just once. She couldn't believe that it would lead her to become completely penniless.Meanwhile, Ariana, who was still at the office, received a call from Jeremy."Ms. Torrey, it has been done. All that's left is to wait for the goods to be exchanged into cash.""I understand. Thank you for your hard work.""You're welcome. We were just following Mr. Smith's orders."Ariana smiled lightly. It was indeed all thanks to Victor's efforts. Without Victor's help, she wouldn't have been able to reclaim all of Gwen's and Igor's wealth and assets so easily. This was the wealth and assets that rightfully belonged to her father.Ariana lifted her head to look at Miranda after she disconnected the call. "It's done. Start the next phase," she s
A Bride’s Revenge: No Longer the Backup Chapter 396
"Ms. Lambert, this is all so sudden. Did something happen?" Ariana asked.No matter how terrible the circumstance she was in, Gwen would never tell Ariana that she had borrowed money from loan sharks. It was part of the Torreys' principles to never come into contact with them.If word about this got out, Gwen would never be able to live it down. Ariana might even use it against her to kick her out of the family.Ariana knew from the beginning that Gwen would never come clean to her about the loan sharks. She just smiled and said, "I'll send a contract to you. Once you put your signature on it, the contract will immediately go into effect. I'll have someone in the finance department transfer the money to you. "However, Ms. Lambert, please be informed this also means that you and Igor will give up the right to all of the inheritance my father left behind."Being face to face with the terrifying loan sharks, Gwen couldn't even spare a moment to think about the consequences of signin
