Dead at Heart (Ariel and Jayson) novel Chapter 830

Ariel didn't give Jayson a chance to respond. She walked away, dragging her suitcase behind her.

She was ruthless and direct.

Jayson watched her retreating figure. He slowly brushed his fingers over the cream-colored coat belt she had left in his hand, his gaze still fixed on her back.

After a moment, he raised his brows and chuckled. He looked down at the belt and tightened his grip around it. Ariel had deliberately left it with him—something to remember her by, or perhaps to stir his imagination.

Even Jayson couldn't compete with Ariel when she revealed her mischievous side.

Once she disappeared into the airport, Jayson climbed back into his car.

Following the incident with Samson and Gustavo in Bellador, the government had made necessary adjustments to the facility's security systems and protocols. With heightened measures in place, they hoped to prevent similar events from recurring.

Jayson had also received word that Stanley had dispatched some of his men to monitor Samson closely. With retirement looming, Stanley couldn't afford any more complications.

Jayson had expected as much. Under pressure from Stanley, Samson would have no choice but to prioritize the Pryce family's future and accept defeat.

Aside from wedding preparations, Jayson was also focused on severing all support and lifelines connected to Kyle's family.

When Shane and his parents were sent abroad, Shane was given a position at their branch in Isbell. He believed he had the company firmly under his control.

However, Jayson's planted personnel within the company had remained discreet, quietly following his instructions.

Now, Jayson had decided to shut down all the factories they had in Isbell. It was time for Shane to step back, as he would no longer have the means or ability to compete with Jayson.

"But now, I know without a doubt that the person Ari truly cares about is me. I was so overjoyed that I decided to clear the air once and for all. Naturally, I had to send you our wedding invitation so you could see how happy she is to be marrying me. That way, you won't have to worry about her anymore."

There was nothing inherently wrong with Jayson's words. Yet each one cut deep into Lucas' heart.

Lucas never imagined he'd hear something like this from Jayson. It felt like a mix of bragging, contempt, and a veiled warning. It was as if Jayson had finally exacted revenge after nursing a grudge for years. If Lucas had to describe it, Jayson was being unusually petty.

Jayson had never hidden his jealousy or possessiveness when it came to romantic rivals. Even now, he could face Lucas directly because he was confident he had won Ariel's heart.

He also wanted Lucas to know that ever since their marriage, Ariel had eyes only for him.

Staring at the open road ahead, Jayson continued in a composed tone, "You've received the invite. If you're busy and can't attend, that's fine, Mr. Sanderson. My wife and I will be happy to receive your well wishes from afar."