Chapter 634

"No enmity lasts forever in this world, and neither do friendships. Look at us now. Aren't we on the same team?"

Arianna didn't get a chance to answer before he continued. "Don't tell me things like 'blood is thicker than water,' or that we're helping each other because we're siblings. Those are bogus excuses, and we both know it. We're here for one reason: we share the same goal, and this plan benefits us both. Am I right?"

Arianna looked at Nathaniel with a solemn gaze.

"You don't need to look at me like that," Nathaniel chuckled. "I told you, we're not enemies—at least not now. As long as we're pursuing the same objective, you'll always be my dearest younger sister, and I'll be your older brother, ready to assist you."

Arianna remained silent for a moment, then shrugged. "Okay, then. You're right. Let's talk about the Lodge family. Since you understand them so well, what are your thoughts?"

"What thoughts do you think I should have? Or what are your thoughts?"

She had come seeking his help, armed with her own plan.

"You mentioned we're after the same thing—a place in the Tanner Corporation, and what we both desire. But we can't do it alone. If we secure the Lodge family's support, we'll be halfway there. Shouldn't we seize this opportunity?" Arianna got straight to the point.

"What are your plans, then?" Nathaniel asked, smiling as he sipped his tea.

"Get Henry on our team. We can help him become head of the Lodge family. He owes us a favor, which will be invaluable."

"How do we get him on our side?"

His endless questions irritated Arianna. Straightening her back, she snapped, "Aren't I supposed to be asking you the questions? Why is it the other way around? I saved you from your debtors; I didn't do it so you could reap the rewards without lifting a finger!"

"Who says I'm doing that?" Nathaniel set down his glass with a sharp clink against the table. His expression turned serious. "I'm executing my plan, but it's a pity you've interrupted."

"Your plan?" Arianna looked around; the tabletop was clear, his laptop was still closed. "What, exactly, are you doing?"

"Those things…"

He gestured towards the extinguished candles. Their mixed scents still hung heavy in the air, choking Arianna. "You're not planning to use those to win Henry over, are you?"

"You're right! They're the key!" Nathaniel nodded solemnly, his seriousness unmistakable. He continued, "Do you know why Henry was accused of replacing Justin as family manager?"

He paused. "It was Wilfred's poisoning. And, coincidentally, he was poisoned by a specific type of candle—one Lily herself created."