Chapter 497

The specter of her past loomed large, and the last thing Shelia wanted was for it to be paraded in public. Joe's hint was as subtle as a freight train, his implication crystal clear.

The Nichols family couldn't afford to welcome a former mistress, fresh off the heels of a lost child, into their esteemed household. They needed to maintain appearances, present a united front, and resurrect their floundering reputation and finances.

Declan, grasping the situation, said, "Jade, don't make a scene."

"Dad..."

"I understand Mr. Nichols' concerns," Declan said, turning his attention back to Joe. "He's doing what's best for the Nichols family. Since you've divorced Debra, how long must my daughter wait?

Juan remained silent, leaving Joe to fill the void. "Six months. The contract with Ms. Frazier ends in six months. Until then, Miss Blair will have to be patient."

Shelia bristled, "Why should I wait? The position of Mrs. Nichols should be mine!"

"Silence!" Declan barked.

Shelia shrank b