"Go get the bag." Jared held Nicole's hand and took the bag they had prepared out of the car. He then walked toward the garden with Nicole."Since you want to spend time with the kids, I'm going to leave them in your hands." Jared walked past Lawrence and left him this remark before leaving with Nicole.Lawrence immediately turned into stone. 'So he became a nice guy because he wanted me to look after the kids?!'Nicole also realized this and could not help but look at Jared. "Jared, you're the father of Nolan and Lana," she whispered.'Is it really okay to leave the responsibility to Lawrence like this?'"He is also their Godpa," Jared said nonchalantly. Besides, Lawrence said that he would accompany the children as well.Jared casually left out Lawrence's mention of "them", which, most importantly, included Nicole."Jared, I never knew you were so petty," Nicole said. She was rather speechless as she shot him a disdainful look."Actually, I've always been petty, you just don'
"Mommy, I want to play with Godpa." Nolan saw that Nicole wanted Lawrence to leave, but he did not want Lawrence to go."Nolan." Nicole felt defeated as he pulled them together. 'Godpa also has his own things to do.""Daddy just said that Godpa is resting too," Lana said innocently.Nicole's lips twitched slightly. 'Does Lana want Lawrence to stay as well?'She could not help but shake her head when she happened to catch a glimpse of Lana smiling brightly at Jared. 'This little girl is too cheeky. Did she inherit Jared's deviousness?'"Go home, Lawrence. We'll take care of the kids." Nicole made a firm decision. Regardless of Nolan and Lana's intentions, she had to make Lawrence leave.This was the only way she could ensure that no one would have any ulterior motives.Looking at Nicole's gaze, Lawrence understood that he had no other choice but to agree. "Sure."'There's probably no point in staying here now. I'll just find another chance next time.'With a smile, he said, "I
Watching the two children eat happily, a trace of amusement flashed in Jared's eyes as he handed a fruit box to Nicole. "Have some."Nicole felt inexplicably guilty because of what happened earlier. Though she knew that there was nothing wrong with having a meal with a friend, she could not help but feel nervous in front of Jared."Daddy, why didn't you find us earlier? If you had found us earlier, we could've played on the island together," Lana said while eating, not forgetting to question Jared.'If Daddy had found us earlier, he could've taken us out to play and enjoy some delicious food. That would've been awesome.'Jared's mood was already gloomy because of Lawrence, but he had no reason to blame Nicole. After all, she did not remember him. However, Lana's words made his heart ache."I've been looking for you all this time." Jared's gaze dimmed and his voice became hoarse.He had never given up searching for them for the last five years, but Nicole seemed to have vanished f
"Daddy spent a long time doing this, but I helped too," Lana said proudly when she saw how much Nicole was enjoying it.Nicole patted Lana's head affectionately. "Thank you so much.""But Daddy did most of the work. Aren't you going to thank him too?" Lana asked with a smile.Nicole felt a little helpless as she thought inwardly. 'I should've never given Lana a chance to speak.'"It's fine. I enjoy cooking for Mommy very much." Jared handed the dessert without coffee powder to Nolan and Lana and said, "This is yours.""Thank you, Daddy," Lana said and lifted her chin toward Nicole as if to say, 'Mommy, this is how you do it.'"Thank you, Uncle Jared." Nolan was very irritated, so he deliberately said the word 'uncle' loudly.Everyone paused for a moment. Then, Nicole softly bit her lip, trying to suppress her laughter. 'I guess Jared is both happy and frustrated to have these two children.'"Why are you smiling?" Jared leaned closer to Nicole and said in an enchanting voice as
"Mr. Lawrence, are you heading to the Genesis Group?" Ian asked in a quiet voice."I'm going to Happiness Trading," Lawrence replied in a cold tone.Ian paused. "Happiness Trading? Aren't they in a conflict with the Johnston Group?"'Why does he want to go there now?'"Well, only the strong ones will prevail in business competitions." A hint of darkness flashed across Lawrence's eyes as he spoke. Since Jared loved to ruin his plans so much, he would take away Jared's ability to do that."Got it," Ian said. He drove toward the office of Happiness Trading.The setting sun cast a warm glow in the sky.After Jared, Nicole, Nolan, and Lana spent the entire day outside, they went back to the Riddle residence happily.As they entered the house, they found out that Daniel and Gloria were not there. Only Stanley, Samuel, and Spencer were present.Nicole could not help but ask curiously, "Where's Mom and Dad?""Grandpa suddenly wanted to see them," Stanley replied.Nicole widened her
Karen looked at Nicole and sneered. "We're having a meeting, and you chose this specific time to visit your Grandpa. What a coincidence, huh?""Why didn't anyone notify me about this meeting?" Nicole pretended to be confused."Don't you see that it's only among the elders? You're young, so you don't have to join us." Karen scoffed.Nicole's gaze fell onto Raine. "So did Raine join on your behalf because your memory is deteriorating?""Why, you!" Karen was speechless and unable to refute. All she could do was glare at Nicole fiercely.She had already told Raine to wait at home, but Raine had insisted on coming along, which was why she was in a difficult position now."I came to visit Grandpa too. I didn't expect to encounter the elders having a meeting. Why don't we go out for a walk, Nicole?" Raine displayed a clever and understanding demeanor. She even used morality to pressure Nicole and make her leave.Nicole's lips curled with a hint of amusement. "Have you seen Grandpa alre
"The Riddle family had never chosen their heir or heiress based on seniority, but ability. So, the most capable person will naturally be the heir of this family." Mr. Riddle Sr. swept his gaze across everyone there sternly before he looked at Nicole.Of course, deep down, he knew very well that Nicole was the most capable and qualified person to inherit the family's wealth. However, he also knew that it was not the right time to say that out loud.Nicole thought about it and realized that the Riddle family had a rule like that instead of always letting the eldest person be the heir. After a moment of thinking, Nicole's face still looked very indifferent as if that had nothing to do with her at all.She genuinely thought so because if the inheritance was based on capabilities, she felt like her eldest brother would be the most suitable candidate. After all, she was going to get married sooner or later and she would have more responsibilities and concerns in the future.After looking
"That girl's mind isn't focused on this matter at all, unlike the others." First, they wanted to get their hands on the shares, and now they wanted to target the ancestral properties of the Riddle family. 'What a bunch of selfish wolves.'"What do you mean, sir?" The butler was a bit puzzled. If the inheritance did not go to Nicole, who did Mr. Riddle Sr. have in mind?Mr. Riddle Sr. smiled proudly and said meaningfully, "The rule of the Riddle family is that those who are capable shall get the inheritance."The butler instantly understood. If Nicole had exceptional abilities, it would naturally be handed over to her. Even if Nicole had no intention to inherit, she was a responsible person who would not shirk away.After all, this was not just mere wealth. It represented the legacy of the Riddle family. Eventually, Nicole would definitely agree as well."You're extremely meticulous, sir." The butler sighed."Come, let's have a meal." Mr. Riddle Sr.'s mood had improved. He was in
"Let's go, it's time to head down. The ceremony will start soon."The group laughed and talked as they left the bridal suite. Jared and his friends, Spencer and Preston, were also guided out by everyone.Now, only the family of four remained in the bridal suite, getting ready for their big entrance."Mommy, it's almost time. Let's get ready," Nolan said, pulling on Nicole's hand.Nicole gently patted Nolan and Lana's cheeks, whispering, "Okay."As she made to stand, Jared extended his hand toward her. Lifting her gaze, she caught Jared in a moment of elegance, his charm unmistakable. A smile bloomed on her face as she placed her hand in his.With a gentle tug, Jared drew her up, his touch tender against her palm.In a swift move, he pulled Nicole into his arms, his other hand circling her waist to pull her close.As Jared looked at Nicole, admiration shimmered in his eyes. "You look truly beautiful today," he remarked."Daddy, Mommy is beautiful every day," Lana chimed in, til
Nicole laughed off the debate between Lulu and June, saying, "Both are lovely. I'm happy with either."Both sets of jewelry were beautiful, and she felt that either would do."Exactly. Nicole will shine in anything," Cindy said, picking a set. "Let's go with this one."Lulu gave June a victorious look. "Told you this was the one."Cindy then suggested, "Why not wear this for the ceremony and switch for the reception? That way, we use both.""Great idea," June agreed, smiling at Cindy's suggestion.Nicole smiled. "Sounds perfect."With everyone agreeing, the stylist went ahead with preparing Nicole.Lulu watched Nicole, amazed by how calm she seemed. "Aren't you a bit nervous?" she asked. Lulu remembered her own wedding jitters.Nicole bit her lip, a hint of nerves showing. "I'm more excited than anything," she admitted.She had been looking forward to this day, ready to face the future with Jared with hope and joy."Just finished," the stylist announced, stepping back to adm
"Do you think I don't want to meet someone? I just haven't found the right person," Gary said somewhat resignedly. He had long regarded Nicole as just a friend."Why don't we just try the dates our families set up?" Ryder suggested, calm and collected. He figured since finding someone on his own wasn't working, maybe arranged dates could help. In their circles, it seemed like good matches were meant to be."Arranged dates don't sound great. You hardly know the person. Are we really okay with deciding to spend our lives together like that?" Preston wasn't too keen on the idea."Emery's doing pretty well with it, you know," Ryder said confidently. "I trust our families. They wouldn't set us up with someone terrible. They've probably made sure we'd be a good match."Gary thought it over. "You might be right. Our families aren't just trying to make deals; they want us to be happy."As Gary and Ryder seemed more into the idea, Preston was still unsure. "You guys are serious?""Why not
Jared held Nicole close and looked at her. "After we get married, we'll move to the estate," he said.Their future home would be just theirs.He thought it was good for Nicole to spend more time with her family since she hadn't been with them for five years. But they knew they would move to the estate later."Okay," Nicole said, nodding. She was happy Jared made the estate close to her family, so she was okay with moving.Jared gently touched her hair and kissed her...****Time flew, and soon it was Nicole and Jared's wedding day.From the morning, San Joto was alive with excitement. Everyone was talking about Jared and Nicole's wedding.Politicians, business leaders, close friends, and business partners all came to wish the couple well.The Riddles were busy welcoming the guests, making everything look amazing."Patricia, hurry up, Charlie's here," Ellar called out as he spotted Charlie. He quickly got Patricia to come and greet him. Max, hearing the fuss, came over too.C
"You really need to rest. You shouldn't work for the next few days. Stay home and rest. A bride has to look her best," Gloria said, looking at Nicole and making the decision for her."Bride!" Nicole was surprised because she hadn't talked about any wedding yet."Yes, now that everything is settled, it's time for your wedding with Jared," Gloria said, deciding firmly. She used to think it was best for the kids to decide for themselves, but after several delays, she felt waiting longer made no sense. The wedding should happen soon."I was thinking that too," Jared said. They had planned the wedding after solving the Everett problem, but then they found out Lawrence had hurt Nicole in the past, causing more delays. Now, with everything sorted out, they saw no reason to wait. The wedding was the next big step.Nicole looked at Jared and, with a smile, agreed, "Okay." Their wedding had been waiting for five years; it was time, with no need to wait any longer."That's so cool, I'm the f
Patricia felt a mix of reluctance and happiness as she prepared to part ways with Charlie.Jared glanced at Charlie and said, "It's about time for us to board." He tenderly held Nicole's hand and led her toward the boarding gate."I need to go through the boarding procedures too," Patricia said, biting her lip. "You must find happiness as well.""I will," Charlie assured her with a gentle smile, giving her a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "You've grown up, too. You don't need to cling to me anymore. I believe Ellar will take great care of you."Patricia nodded, then, leaning closer to Charlie, she whispered, 'When Mr. Johnston and Ms. Riddle get married, make sure you bring my future sister-in-law back with you.' Caught off guard, Charlie playfully scolded her, "You little rascal."Doretta, standing not too far away, overheard Patricia's whispered words. Her cheeks turned even redder."Let's go," Patricia announced, then turned to Doretta, adding, "We'll meet again.""Goodbye,
Lying in bed with Nicole cradled in his arms, Jared whispered gently, "Sleep for a bit.""Mhm." Finally feeling at peace, Nicole smiled slightly, and she quickly fell asleep.As Jared listened to her soft breathing, his eyes softened with affection, and he too closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep.The next morning, as the group got ready to head back to San Joto, Zane and Doretta came to say goodbye."I still have things to finish here, but I promise to be at your wedding," Zane said with a big smile."And I'll be there to wish you well, Nicole," Doretta added.Saying goodbye is always hard, but everyone knew they had their own journeys to continue."Great, we'll see you in San Joto," Nicole said with a bright smile."It's time to go," Zane said, knowing they couldn't wait any longer without risking missing their plane."I've got the paperwork," Patricia said, ready to help with the travel documents for Jared and Nicole. Then, looking at Charlie, she asked, "Need help with
Nicole was quiet, thinking about everything. 'If I hadn't remembered everything, maybe Lawrence and I could have stayed friends. But after finding out about the airport, it's impossible...'Not only had she regained her memory, but she had also learned about the airport incident. Lawrence had gone to great lengths to prevent her from returning to San Joto."Thanks for saving me before, but you also hurt me. We're even now," Nicole said calmly, looking at Lawrence like he was someone she didn't know anymore.Jared squeezed Nicole's hand gently. "Let's go."They decided to leave the rest to Zane and head back."Wait." Lawrence's voice stopped Nicole. He sounded almost like he was begging. "Please, don't tell Nolan about this."Nicole paused, then said, "I won't tell him. Not for you, but because I don't want Nolan to see how bad people can be."With that, Nicole walked away with Jared.Lawrence sat down, watching her leave, with mixed feelings."Let's go too," Patricia said to C
"Your robots don't work anymore," a voice said, sounding very pleased. Then, a person came out from behind the crowd, looking pretty proud of himself."Carl!" Nicole was shocked to see him. 'It's Carl!'"It's been a while." Carl smiled and waved at Nicole.Carl had come as soon as Zane told him about the problem. He couldn't just do nothing when Nicole needed help.He didn't expect them to act so soon, which is why he was a little late. But he was still in time to help. Carl was surprised by Lawrence's robots at first, but luckily, the weapons he brought, which he had been working on for years, stopped the robots. This was a big help to everyone."We really need to thank Carl; we would have been in big trouble without him," Zane said, feeling relieved.Zane had asked Carl for help, hoping it would make them more likely to win, but Carl ended up being very important."Thank you," Nicole said with a warm smile. It was nice to see an old friend again."No need to thank me. I'm jus