Chapter 859

The incident involving Lawrence had significant and dire consequences. He was the industry's leading authority; his downfall was a catastrophic blow to confidence.

Noah, the vice president, faced immense pressure managing the turmoil within the Perfumers' Society. He packed to return to Kingsland, strategizing a counteroffensive. However, Arianna reappeared.

"Why are you here again? I made myself perfectly clear." He was resolute, uninterested in her.

"I thought you'd figured things out these past two days," Arianna smiled knowingly.

"Oh really?" Noah, raising an eyebrow, resumed organizing his desk.

"Why bother? It's all just waste paper. Lily is difficult; I knew it from our first encounter. She may seem meek, but she's stubborn and ambitious, even plotting against Mr. Adler. What else could she fear?"

Though disliking Arianna, Noah agreed. He hadn't anticipated Lily's ruthlessness, believing the Perfumers' Society's power could subdue her. He underestimated her ability to nearly dismantle the entire organization.

The Society's turmoil left everyone feeling vulnerable. Fear of exposure fueled a desperate need to avoid becoming the next victim. "You must join forces with me to handle her," Arianna pressed.

"You?" Noah sneered, glancing sideways. "Tanner Corporation is also in jeopardy; the police and Quality Assurance are investigating. Do you think you can shift blame with a few dubious photos and videos? Do you think Tanner Corporation can evade responsibility so easily?"

Arianna explained, "Even if Tanner Corporation is held accountable, it will be minor—negligent employment and supervision. A senior manager's confession will resolve it. My family's corporation is substantial, and the Richards family is influential in Kingsland. Surely you understand this."

Noah understood Arianna, but also her true motives. He smiled. "You wouldn't be here if it were that simple. The Tanner Corporation isn't yours yet. Neither your uncle nor father intends to make you successor. You're seeking my power, not my affection. You want the Richards family's influence to force your uncle to relinquish control, am I right?"

He was correct.

Arianna, unfazed, smiled. "Yes! And you need a wife. Is anyone in the Tanner family superior? The Richards family has many heirs. Even beyond our generation, successors are established. Will your family truly entrust their assets to a rebellious son like you?"