Chapter 686

Unlike Nathaniel, Arianna was more concerned with who could best serve her ambitions within the Tanner family. She disregarded the kickboxing aspect of their rivalry. "That may not be true," Nathaniel remarked, shaking his head.

"What do you mean?" Arianna asked.

"Henry wouldn't yield to destiny so easily. He wouldn't concede defeat quickly," Nathaniel explained. He'd thoroughly researched Henry during his background check. Banished from the Lodge family, Henry's hatred fueled a desire to reclaim his authority after his father's death. Such a man wouldn't give up easily.

Arianna frowned disapprovingly. "Why are you so invested in him? Why do you believe in him so much? We should focus on mending our relationship with Justin instead of waiting for Henry's return."

Nathaniel extinguished his cigarette, his eyes darkening. "I'm not placing all my bets on Henry. I'm waiting for an opportunity."

"We should leave the Lodge family alone for now," Arianna said. "Now is the best time for us. I've already dispatched our people to spread news of Lily's use of poisonous ingredients in her perfumes. Soon, we'll destroy her reputation, and she'll be finished. By then, our new perfume will be launched."

Arianna snapped, seeing Nathaniel's smile. "What are you so happy about?"

"Do you prefer other perfumes to succeed? The company won't reward you for their popularity, but you'll take the fall if something goes wrong." Damian tolerated Nathaniel, despite his irritating nature, because he needed a scapegoat. Even though Damian was confident, he remained cautious. Lackluster sales or unforeseen problems would be someone else's responsibility.

Nathaniel knew Damian's plan. He laughed. "This is child's play."

"Don't underestimate him, or you'll sink with him. I don't care if you fail, but don't jeopardize my plans," Arianna warned.

Their confrontation ended Arianna's pretense of civility.

"Don't worry. It won't disrupt our plans," Nathaniel said, emphasizing "our" to highlight their shared interests.

"Your brother is wary of me. He handled everything himself—contacting, communicating, and meeting those people. He didn't need me, and I'm glad. However, he's young and reckless. A false front can't last. What happens when people find out? That will be interesting." Nathaniel leaned back, hands behind his head, anticipating the outcome.

Nathaniel closely observed Damian, providing him with an informant—carefully, leaving no trace. Damian, however, was celebrating his perceived gains, oblivious to the impending disaster. Everything was proceeding according to Nathaniel's plan. A spectacular downfall was imminent.