Chapter 323

Mrs. Linden's haughty expression faltered, replaced by something sharper, colder. "Ariana," she said, her voice like shards of ice, "we need to talk." I crossed my arms. "Alright. Let's talk." I led her out of the office to a quieter corner of the hallway. Turning to face her, I waited, calm but guarded. "So, what do you want to talk about, Mrs. Linden?" Mrs. Linden studied me, her gaze raking over me like she was inspecting a questionable piece of art. Then, to my surprise, she smirked. "You've changed," she said slowly, almost amused. "I used to think you were just some spoiled daddy's girl with more money than brains. Five billion... you didn't even blink when my son asked for it. You handed it over like it was pocket change." I clenched my jaw. "If you dragged me here just to reminisce, save it. I'm not interested." Her smirk deepened. "Alright then. Let's cut to the chase. Name your price. Or..." She trailed off, her tone suddenly silky. "We could try making peace.