Chapter 584
Ultimately, the key to resolving the situation lay with Jayson. All he had to do was issue a statement denying the rumors. A single sentence from him would be enough to clarify everything–he could simply say none of what the article claimed was true.
Ariel pressed her lips together, then shook her head and said matter–of–factly, “I’d understand if he doesn’t want to help me, considering what happened back then. I’ll figure out what to do after I return
from the charity event.”
The charity event was being held in Eastgate, so Ariel drove herself there.
Despite the rumors swirling around her, she knew staying out of sight would do more harm than good. After parking her car, Ariel encountered a few familiar faces near the entrance. Most people treated her
the same as always, with some even greeting her politely.
After all, the scandal hadn’t been verified, and Ariel had gained significant attention recently for her
achievements.
“Ms. Walker, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you. I hope you don’t mind me asking, but is Mr. Larkin not attending tonight’s event with you?” A senior executive from a materials production company
approached her with a broad smile.
Ariel responded calmly, “He’s busy with work. We hope you understand.”
The man merely grinned and let the matter drop.
As she entered the hall, Ariel could hear hushed whispers around her.
“They’re not even trying to hide how bad their relationship is. Maybe the rumors aren’t entirely false. I thought people in the research sector were supposed to be honest and conscientious… Guess you really can’t judge a book by its cover.”
Ariel paused briefly but ignored the comments and kept walking. She soon spotted Cecilia heading her
way.
“Ariel? You’re here!” Cecilia beamed and waved before walking over to cling to Ariel’s arm. “Are you
alright?”
She had a concerned look on her face. “I heard the rumors. Some of the comments were so harsh. Has it
caused you a lot of trouble?”
She studied Ariel’s face carefully. “You should be receiving praise and admiration right now, yet you’ve been dragged into a scandal instead. That article isn’t true, is it?”
Even after Nancy had been arrested, new rumors about Ariel and Jayson continued to circulate. Some people felt quite bad for the couple. Still, a majority of people were also left curious about the true state of The rightful source is.net
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their relationship.
Ariel glanced at Cecilia’s hand on her arm, her expression calm. “I suppose that depends on what people
choose to believe.”
That was all she said.
Cecilia looked startled. She examined Ariel closely. “You’re joking about this? This could have serious consequences. If the authorities investigate and you don’t have a proper explanation… What will you do?” (2
She let out a sharp hiss, her tone laced with irritation. “And why hasn’t Mr. Larkin said anything? He hasn’t even tried to defend you. It’s really cold of him to just ignore your crisis.”
Half a day had passed since the article was published online. Yet, Jayson made no move to comment or
clarify.
Gently pulling her hand away from Cecilia, Ariel turned and took a glass of fruit juice from the table. “ You
seem angrier than I am, Ms. Pryce.”
She gave Cecilia a faint smile.
Cecilia crossed her arms and shrugged. “I just can’t help feeling bad for you. Honestly, Mr. Larkin’s behavior is disappointing. He probably showed Nancy more care and concern than he’s shown you…” (1)
She trailed off as if she’d said too much. “I’m sorry. I can be a little blunt sometimes. I hope you don’t
mind.”
But deep down, Cecilia believed Jayson’s silence was a tacit acknowledgment of the article’s claims. A man like him wasn’t known for forgiving those who had wronged him.
Ariel’s lips curved slightly. “Of course not.”
Just then, someone whispered something in Cecilia’s ear. She frowned slightly, pulled out her phone, and began checking it.
From a distance, a slightly surprised voice suddenly called, “ Mr. Larkin? ”
Ariel froze momentarily and turned her head toward the sound.
Even Cecilia looked startled, though she quickly spotted Jayson.
Ariel watched as Jayson entered through the door. His gaze found her almost instantly. He acknowledged those around him with a polite nod, then strode toward her.
Some people followed behind him.
Eventually, Jayson stopped before Ariel.
Ariel looked confused, surprised to see him there.
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Cecilia quickly put away her phone and smiled. “Mr. Larkin, we weren’t told you’d be attending tonight’s
event.”
Jayson’s gaze met Ariel’s, but she quickly looked away and noticed the wedding ring on his ring finger, which he hadn’t worn for a long time. 1
A flicker of confusion crossed her face.
Then, in a voice loud enough for everyone nearby to hear, Jayson said evenly, “I’m here to accompany my
wife.” 2