Rebirth Revenge Is Everything (Ariana) novel Chapter 714

In wealthy families, familial bonds are often as fragile as paper—such is the reality.

Kendra's expression remained indifferent. "I've said it before—she must take responsibility for her actions." Even if Ariana hadn't been the one hurt, even if it hadn't been her own daughter, Kendra wouldn’t have shielded Irene in the slightest.

Earl nodded. "Understood."

Kendra: "If there's nothing else, I’ll head upstairs."

Earl hesitated for a moment before quickly adding, "Wait, there’s one more thing. It’s about… well… Nathan. What do you plan to do with him? His actions this time have truly disappointed me. If you’re considering changing the heir, I wouldn’t object."

Kendra froze at his words.

She studied Earl carefully for a long moment before sighing faintly. "This is the Harper Group." Her meaning was clear—even if her opinion mattered, a decision as significant as replacing the heir required the involvement of all shareholders.

Asking her alone made little sense.

Though she held the reins of the entire Harper Group, it didn’t mean Kendra harbored any ulterior motives.

Earl: "True, but you’re still part of the Harper family—the undisputed head of the household. What’s wrong with asking for your thoughts?"

Kendra: "..."

The corner of her mouth twitched slightly, but before she could respond, Nathan suddenly returned. He paused, blinking in surprise at his adoptive parents, then hurried over and called out, "Mom."

Earl’s brow furrowed slightly, displeased that Nathan had interrupted his rare moment alone with Kendra.

Still, he maintained his composed, authoritative tone. "Do you need something?"

Nathan’s heart sank at the icy detachment in Earl’s voice. He glanced at the man who was technically his uncle but had raised him as a father, then clenched his jaw, his eyes reddening. "Dad, Mom… I know I was wrong. Please forgive me."

Nathan felt he hadn't been completely discarded like Irene, who ended up in prison.

His adoptive parents must still be hesitating, he thought.

For him, even the slimmest hope was something to cling to desperately. Losing his status as the Harper family heir was unthinkable.

Kendra watched her weeping adoptive son, her brows knitting together in visible disappointment.

It seemed Nathan truly wasn't fit to shoulder the Harper family's responsibilities, she thought coldly.

"Master, Madam."

The butler entered just then.

Kendra lifted her gaze. "Yes?"

"Mr. Bran Moore wishes to see Madam before his imminent return abroad. He's come to bid farewell," the butler said with utmost deference. Given the recent turmoil in the Harper household, even long-serving staff like him had to be exceptionally careful these days.

One misstep could mean facing the full wrath of the family heads.

At Bran's name, Kendra's expression softened slightly. "Show him to my study," she said with a nod before turning back to Nathan. "Anyone can apologize. But as the heir, is a simple apology all you can offer after your mistakes?"

Without waiting for the stunned Nathan's response, she strode toward her study.

Otherwise, he wouldn't be able to smile so effortlessly when meeting people now.

This was proof enough—the news he'd received wasn't false.

Bran steadied himself and smiled politely. "Of course, I'll visit often in the future. I hope Uncle won't find me a bother." Then he turned to Kendra, his expression suddenly layered with complexity. Softly, he added, "Take care, Auntie."

Kendra nodded, amused by Bran's overly earnest demeanor. A faint smile touched her lips as she replied, "Safe travels. And... there's something I'd like you to relay to your father."

The words made both Bran and Earl tense.

Earl, in particular, paled momentarily.

Kendra's tone remained composed. "I hope your company's collaboration with the Harper Group is based on merit, not charity. The Harper Group doesn't need anyone's pity or favors." She paused, then added coolly, "Also, I'm married. I won't repeat myself."

Earl's eyes flickered with barely contained elation.

Bran, after a stunned silence, let out a quiet, rueful laugh. He dipped his head slightly. "I'll deliver your message to my father."

Kendra nodded. "Good. I'll arrange for someone to take you to the airport tomorrow."

Bran quickly waved a hand. "That won't be necessary. I can manage on my own."

Kendra sighed. "It's the Harper family's custom. Besides..." Her gaze sharpened. "I'd prefer no... accidents on your way to the airport."

After all, heirs of such families were always vulnerable to unfortunate incidents.