"They want to divide the family assets," Nicole said slowly and disdainfully.The news shocked not only Samuel but also Spencer and Stanley. "Are they insane?"'Grandpa is still alive and well, yet they want to divide the family assets. Moreover, aside from diving the companies, it seems that it's not something that can be done easily.'"Yeah," Nicole scoffed. "If they weren't crazy, how could they do such a brainless thing? It seems like my return has driven them mad.""What did Grandpa say about it?" Samuel curiously asked."No matter the generation or seniority, only capable individuals are eligible to inherit the family assets," Nicole revealed calmly."Capable individuals?" The three of them looked at Nicole simultaneously.Nicole immediately shook her head. "Don't look at me. I'm not interested.""Not you? Then is it us?" the three of them asked in unison. They did not even bother to get involved in the company, so inheriting the Riddle family assets was even less appeali
Spencer and Stanley nodded in agreement. They were fine as long as they did not join the company.Gloria was completely speechless. While other siblings would fight fiercely, her family's situation would attract envy and resentment if it became known to others."Mom, don't worry. Dad also said that Grandpa is in good health," Nicole reassured Gloria. "Besides, both Steve and I can help Sean in the company, along with Jane. She's a capable assistant to him."Although Nicole had only met her sister-in-law a few times since returning and had not had a chance to communicate much, she still had some understanding of her. She felt that Sean was fortunate to have her."Then you also need to take care of yourself." Gloria expressed her concern, not wanting Nicole to overwork herself."I'm fine, really. Don't worry," Nicole reassured her."Rest assured. In the company, Sean and Steve won't let her work too hard," Jared said, holding Nicole's soft hand.Gloria nodded in agreement. "Jared'
Although Nicole did not have a headache, her memory was a blank slate. Everything that just happened felt familiar, yet it did not seem like a sign of memory recovery."It's okay. I'll contact Martin and discuss it with him," Jared reassured Nicole, holding her delicate hand gently.His broad palm and warm touch instantly dissipated Nicole's feelings of anxiety and loss, and she suddenly felt at ease.Looking up at Jared, Nicole slightly bit her lip and whispered, "Thank you for being by my side all this time."Ever since she returned to San Joto and regained her identity, she would feel reassured as long as Jared was with her whenever something happened.Jared gently stroked her silky hair and softly said, "No need to thank me. I should be the one thanking you for finally coming back to me."If she had not returned, his future would still be bleak, devoid of any color.Nicole's heart skipped a beat, deeply moved by his words. She could imagine how he had spent the last five yea
The two pairs of eyes met. Both of them were speechless and the atmosphere was extremely awkward.A gush of cold wind blew over and Nicole came back to her senses. She aggressively pulled the bathrobe to cover her body while yelling in a panic, "I'm fine! G-get out!"Jared did not leave. Instead, he pulled Nicole into his arms and carried her out of the bathroom."I can walk on my own. Put me down!" Nicole grabbed her bathrobe tightly, feeling nervous.She had just stepped out of the bathtub when she slipped and fell down. Unexpectedly, her fully naked body was seen by Jared. She was already embarrassed as it was, and yet Jared carried her out in that manner. Nicole could not wait to dig a hole for herself.On top of that, this would signify that she had revealed her full self to Jared. The next thing would be...The more Nicole thought about it, the more scared she felt. At that moment, the only thought in her head was to get away from Jared as soon as possible. The both of them
Looking at Nicole's stunned yet cute look, Jared smiled and gently patted her head. "You may go now. I'll pick you up after work.""Okay," Nicole replied briefly. Then, she opened the door and got out of the car.After that, Nicole realized that something was off. Why was she being so obedient? He had just sneakily kissed her. How could he react so calmly?The car's window rolled down and Jared said with a smile, "I actually prefer this type of compensation.""Jared Johnston!" Nicole's cheeks were blushing rapidly. She stared at Jared angrily. 'This reckless man!'"Alright, I'll leave now." Jared quickly ordered the driver to drive off before Nicole could explode in anger.Looking at Jared's car leaving, Nicole gritted her teeth in annoyance. She wished that she could blow the car up with her glare.This guy was really getting harder to satisfy by the day. However, Nicole could not do much but take it in."Nicole, what are you doing, standing here?" Sean approached her and took
Sean's gaze turned cold. "What dirty tricks are Uncle Damien and Uncle Dillon up to now?"After Nicole briefly mentioned the splitting of the family's assets, she raised her eyebrow and said, "The problem is, this bad news is related to you.""Me?" Sean was confused. What did the family's assets have to do with him?"Grandpa said you have the ability to inherit, and everyone agreed that you're the perfect choice for this," Nicole reported truthfully."When you say 'everyone', who's included?" Sean found it weird that he did not know anything about it.Nicole shrugged her shoulders innocently and threw her brothers under the bus. "Stanley, Spencer and Samuel."Sean was startled at first, but then he let out a laugh which scared people. "These brats. They've become so daring now."They actually passed such a huge responsibility onto him. They deserved a beating."Sean, I honestly think you're the perfect choice. So, I hope you'll take this into consideration," Nicole said with a
Iris was waiting in front of Jared's office."Sir, there are some issues with Happiness Trading." The look on Iris was heavy.Jared's gaze darkened as he questioned coldly, "What issue?"Iris gave a brief summary of the situation. "Previously, we were at the stage of negotiating a contract. But this morning, they contacted us to terminate the collaboration."Jared's pupils narrowed slightly. "Terminate?""Yes, I've done some research, and it seems like they've found a new company to work with," Iris replied a little awkwardly.Jared turned his gaze toward Max. Instantly, Max understood what Jared wanted and he left."Got it." Jared opened the door and entered his office.Iris knew that Jared meant that she could leave after she was done reporting. But she hesitated for a moment. Then, she gritted her teeth and followed Jared into the office.She had already found out about Nicole's situation. According to her sources, Nicole had a contractual marriage with Jared. The only issu
Iris clenched her teeth, unsatisfied. She had overheard Jared and Max's conversation and it made her feel wronged. She had tried her very best to arrange an appointment with the CEO of Happiness Trading. And yet, Jared did not bother to even consider it.It was the perfect opportunity for her to perform well in front of Jared. In the end, her plan failed.'No way! I can't give up this easily. After all, I might not have much time left. I've been waiting silently for five years, and I had never imagined the day I would lose Jared.'After Jared left Johnston Group's office, he soon arrived at the Riddle Corporation.At the same time, Nicole had just stepped out of the building. When she saw Jared's car, she hurried over and got into the car."Come on, let's pick Nolan and Lana up." Nicole leaned into the seat."I've asked your mom and dad to pick them up. We're going to Martin's place." Jared glanced at Nicole out the side of his eye.Her situation with her memory the night before
"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