Rebirth Revenge Is Everything (Ariana) novel Chapter 525

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At that moment, Ariana remained blissfully unaware of the storm brewing at home because of her.

She was still busy preparing for the New Year festivities—an exhausting task, to say the least. Celebrating the holiday in a large, prestigious family was nothing short of a logistical nightmare.

Meanwhile, Lucian sat quietly beside her, diligently working on his homework. The sight of them—one absorbed in her tasks, the other in his—each at their own desks, was so heartwarming that it became a charming little scene in the Stone Family household.

Gwen walked in just in time to witness this picture of domestic harmony. Unable to suppress a smile, she called out, "Ariana."

Ariana glanced up and, recognizing her sister-in-law, gave a nod. "Second Sister-in-law, what brings you here?"

Lucian, ever the polite child, chimed in sweetly, "Auntie."

Gwen affectionately pinched the boy's cheek before turning back to Ariana. "Of course, there's something. I wouldn't dare disturb the busiest woman in the house otherwise." After the lighthearted jab, she got straight to the point. "Madelyn Olson is here today. The elders want you to come out and greet the guest. After all, she’s practically the future sister-in-law..."

A peculiar expression flickered across Gwen’s face as she uttered the words "sister-in-law."

Madelyn...

Ariana silently repeated the name twice in her mind.

"I understand," she replied calmly. She had known for days that Madelyn was Arnold’s fiancée.

The irony of this unexpected encounter wasn’t lost on her—it almost felt like fate playing a cruel joke.

After all, Madelyn harbored animosity toward her, and the feeling was mutual. Yet Ariana had no say—nor any desire to intervene—in whom Arnold chose to marry. It seemed the main branch of the Stone family was fated to be her nemesis. First, there was Beverly, and now Madelyn—both wives who treated her with outright hostility.

But Arnold was an interesting case.

He kept marrying women infatuated with his younger brother. Maybe he had a peculiar fondness for wearing horns?

Not that it concerned her.

Madelyn’s affairs were none of her business. As long as the woman didn’t make a move, neither would she. Ariana had never been one to stir trouble—unless provoked first.

…

Just as Ariana had anticipated, Madelyn seemed intent on declaring war.

When Ariana followed Gwen into the main hall of the Stone residence, her gaze immediately landed on Madelyn, seated beside the family matriarch, coaxing laughter from the old woman… and Irene, standing nearby, chatting and laughing with others.

Gwen was unaware of Irene’s history.

Spotting the unfamiliar woman beside Madelyn, she leaned in and whispered to Ariana, "That’s Irene—apparently divorced. She’s Madelyn’s close friend."

Ariana responded with a noncommittal hum. Of course, she knew—far earlier and in far greater detail than Gwen ever could.

Undeterred, Gwen continued eagerly, "Honestly, this woman outshines Madelyn. Why would she bring such a stunning friend along to the Stone family gathering? It’s practically stealing her own spotlight." Typically, women chose companions who paled in comparison, much like brides selecting plainer bridesmaids.

Madelyn was set to marry Arnold next year.

Her presence at the Stone family’s New Year celebration was expected, but bringing a friend along? That was downright baffling. Most would come alone.

It was just like when Gwen came to the Stone family for New Year's before marrying Finley—she came alone.