Rebirth Revenge Is Everything (Ariana) novel Chapter 382

382 /658

On their way back from the main residence, the first and second branches of the family were heading in the same direction. The uncle and aunt from the first branch left directly, intentionally giving their son and daughter-in-law some time alone. Understanding his parents' intentions, Arnold smiled and stopped Finley, suggesting they walk together since they were going the same way. Finley knew Arnold wanted to talk during the walk, so he didn't refuse.

Meanwhile, Gwen naturally found herself conversing with Beverly. Whether Beverly had been warned or not, her attitude towards Gwen had improved. After a few cautious exchanges, Gwen, relieved that Beverly no longer seemed dismissive or indifferent, complimented, "Sister-in-law, Alvin is so handsome, truly a reflection of you and big brother. He's going to be a heartthrob when he grows up, charming many girls."

Beverly was pleased with such flattery and responded with a slight smile, "He's still so young, it's hard to tell."

Gwen shook her head and continued to praise, "They say you can tell a child's future from a young age."

The smile in Beverly's eyes deepened. She felt less resistant and hostile towards Gwen. Remembering her mother's advice that Gwen was, after all, family, it might be wise to improve their relationship. As Gwen was now her sister-in-law, she could be useful in the future.

Thus, Beverly decided to be more amiable towards Gwen. After all, her greatest disdain was not for Gwen but for Ariana! She was willing to pay any price to bring Ariana down!

Gwen, observing Beverly's expression and finding no negative reaction, gathered her courage after a moment and said, "Sister-in-law, there's something I'm not sure if I should say. But now, I feel I must." This was actually a tacit alliance between the two branches, but it still needed to be confirmed by the younger generation to formalize the union. Otherwise, what if someone backed out later? A mere tacit understanding between the two branches wasn't enough; it needed to be more official. So, Gwen's husband and mother-in-law had asked her to address this today.

She hadn't wanted to approach Beverly and had been anxious about how to broach the subject. But, seeing Beverly's improved attitude, her tension eased somewhat, though a faint sense of reluctance remained. In her heart, she wasn't convinced that allying with the first branch was the best move.

The third branch of the family is currently in the limelight, basking in the favor of the elders. Under normal circumstances, alliances would form to counter their rise. However, Gwen harbored an uneasy premonition, a gut feeling that it would be unwise to make enemies of Lambert and his wife. Yet, her voice held no sway in such matters, leaving her to follow her mother-in-law's and husband's directives.

Beverly had already anticipated Gwen's concerns. With a slight arch of her brow, she prompted, "Go on."

Gwen hesitated before speaking, "The third branch has won Grandfather and Grandmother's hearts. This doesn't bode well for our two branches."

Beverly's eyes darkened at the mention of the third branch. The image of Lambert flashed through her mind, stirring a deep ache in her heart. Time had done little to ease the pain; if anything, it had twisted her longing into something more sinister. What was once a simple unrequited love had morphed into a distorted obsession etched into her very being.

Her hatred for Ariana burned fiercely, and her desire to possess Lambert, even for a fleeting moment, had become all-consuming.

Observing Beverly's expression, Gwen cautiously continued, "So... I was thinking, perhaps we should join forces?"

Beverly glanced at Gwen, fully aware that these words were likely prompted by Gwen's mother-in-law and Finley. A wave of disdainful mockery washed over her, but she refrained from lashing out or seizing the opportunity to humiliate Gwen for a momentary sense of vindication.

She remembered Khloe and Arnold's words, so she bit back her impulses. Her position in the main branch was precarious; even after giving birth, her in-laws and husband remained cold, their resentment over her previous pregnancy still simmering beneath the surface. The birth of Alvin had only added to their disgrace. Thus, Beverly had no choice but to suppress her temper and respond with restraint. "Of course," she said, "I believe this is a wise decision."

Gwen visibly relaxed, a smile spreading across her face. "Then, a pleasant partnership to us."

Beverly replied with a faint smile, "A pleasant partnership."