Even without a single word from Nancy, Ariel knew exactly what she was trying to say.
Taking Jayson’s arm like that right in front of her was a clear declaration to the world that she was the one Jayson loved. It was also her way of emphasizing that Ariel failed to win her “husband’s”
heart.
Janice’s face darkened instantly. That was a blatant provocation.
She was about to say something, but Ariel looked away and took Janice’s hand. “Let’s go in first.”
After all, Nancy technically hadn’t done anything. If they made a scene now, it would only come off like Ariel was being petty and jealous.
Besides, she hadn’t come here to throw punches. She had a general plan in mind. She needed to play it by ear and wait for the right moment. At the very least, she should wait until everyone had arrived before deciding what to do. Otherwise, it would all be for nothing.
Janice clenched her jaw and swallowed the rage.
They were here for something big today. She couldn’t be the one to mess it up.
The exhibition was high–end in every sense, with heavy promotion in the days leading up to it. Sarah had even hired a well–known local curator, and the whole event was put together with striking flair and fanfare.
But all that glory was built on Elena’s hard work.
Back in the day, Elena had painted a new series based on her two–piece project, only for Sarah to turn around and accuse her of plagiarizing her graduation project. It led to Elena’s series piece being condemned and branded as plagiarism, eventually ending up lost.
Even though Jayson had bought it back at a high price last year, it meant nothing if he refused to give her Sarah’s painting, which could serve as evidence.
“They’re certainly doing their best to pretend they belong in high society. I’ll give them that. This exhibition does look impressive.” Janice had been wearing a frosty expression ever since she entered.
Ariel glanced around. The event hadn’t officially started yet, and most of the people present were staff.
“There’s been too much scandal lately. They’re clearly betting everything on this to come out on top. They’ll throw everything they’ve got at it.”
And sure enough, Jayson had shown up in person.
He was a walking headline. Just his presence would pull in a crowd. Whether he meant to or not, he was lending his name to hype up his future mother–in–law.
“Ariel?” Sarah looked radiant today. The moment she spotted Ariel, she walked over with a
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beaming smile. “It’s just you? Where are your grandma and uncle? Didn’t they come to show their support?”
There was no emotion in Ariel’s eyes. She wouldn’t be rattled so easily anymore. “It’s fine. I’ll be sure to relay just how ‘glorious‘ today was for you, Mrs. Stanton.”
A flicker of surprise flashed in Sarah’s eyes.
Ariel was too calm. There was no sign of anger at all What was she planning?
“I mean, with your age and your condition, are you sure you can handle this kind of stress? It would be a shame if you pushed too hard and ended up wrecking yourself.”
Janice’s sarcasm was barely veiled. She was one step away from outright saying, “Better watch your neck.”
She was cursing Sarah to an early grave.
Sarah’s expression turned cold as she glared at Janice.
That was her sore spot.
Back in her early years abroad, she drank heavily and socialized nonstop for fame and fortune. Over time, her liver cirrhosis had become severe.
She valued her life. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have stayed in the hospital for over half a year.
“Ms. Swanson, you’re nothing like your brother. He and Nancy are close. In fact, he’s been seriously thinking about marrying her. You do realize you’re practically slapping him in the face for saying that, right?”
After saying that, Sarah turned to greet other guests.
Frederick wanted to marry Nancy? Had he completely lost his mind?
She hadn’t had much interaction with Frederick. Since their values and personalities clashed so badly, she usually went out of her way to avoid him
But still, he was her brother. And now he was actually thinking about marrying Nancy?
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