"If even Nicole can't find a way, then it's really hopeless," Jared said, his eyes narrowing slightly.Known secretly as 'Ghost Hand,' a famed yet enigmatic doctor, Nicole, along with Martin, was their best shot. If even they couldn't sort out Patricia's facial injury, it really did seem like a tall order."Mrs. Johnston is working on a solution. I believe she can handle it," Max said with a bit of confidence.Jared nodded, knowing Nicole would do everything she could. He then asked Max about the preparations for their next move."Everything's ready, just waiting for them to act," Max replied seriously."We must ensure it's foolproof," Jared said, his demeanor cold and decisive."Mr. Johnston, don't worry," Max assured him.After Max left Jared's office, he conveyed the information to Charlie.Charlie, upon hearing the news, felt a sense of relief and joy. 'Patricia can get out safely, no strings attached,' he thought, feeling thankful.In their line of work, leaving the organ
After dinner, Tia, blushing at Stanley's response, wheeled Mrs. Wallace Sr. out of the room. Stanley followed, offering to help.Gloria watched Stanley's caring gestures and felt a sense of relief. "I can finally relax now," she said, smiling contentedly.Nicole joked with Gloria, "Guess you don't have to worry about any of us anymore."Gloria turned to Nicole, and sensing Gloria's next question, Nicole quickly changed the topic. "Mom, I'll go check on Nolan and Lana," she said, pulling Jared with her as they quickly went upstairs.She had a hunch that if they stayed, the conversation might turn to her and Jared, which she wasn't ready for.Gloria shook her head at Nicole's hasty departure. "This girl...""Don't interfere in her matters," Daniel advised Gloria. He knew about Nicole and Jared's situation and didn't want to pressure them.Gloria sighed, agreeing not to pry. She trusted Nicole and Jared to sort things out on their own."Let's go rest," Daniel suggested, and they h
Jared was aware that what they had asked from Preston and his team might not be a simple task.Furrowed his brow slightly, he said, "Let's visit them at Finley Group tomorrow."Nicole, considering their options, agreed. "That's a good idea. We might be able to help if they're stuck on something."After shutting down their computers, Nicole and Jared joined Nolan and Lana, who were busy building with blocks. "Playing with blocks, huh? Mommy and Daddy will join you," Nicole said cheerfully.Lana excitedly agreed, while Nolan, letting go of his blocks, said, "That's great, you guys play with her.""You're not playing?" Nicole asked, surprised.Nolan shrugged, a look of disdain on his face. "It's a kid's game. I'm not interested."Nicole's lips twitched slightly as she was amused and bemused by her five-year-old's disdain for "kid's games".Nolan, unbothered, picked up a book and started reading seriously.Nicole shook her head, laughing lightly, and started playing with Lana. Lan
Nicole finally got why the project was dragging its feet.She had requested a tracking program, something she thought would be easy for the team.But it turned out they were up to more than she asked. They were setting a trap with a phishing program, aiming to switch the real decryption program with a fake at the last second. Their plan? To snag Water Crest's data without raising any alarms.Nicole bit her lip, pondering abit before she said, "That's a good idea, but it's definitely risky."Even she wasn't entirely sure they could pull it off. The program was complex."We can give it a try," Jared decided, after considering Nicole's words.Nicole looked at him, "We can't be certain of winning."If they failed, they'd alert the enemy and create more trouble."But it's worth trying," Jared said calmly, confident in their abilities.Gary was eager to get started, "Let's do it."Ryder also agreed, "I'm on board."Preston looked to Nicole, "I'll follow your lead."Everyone turne
"Good idea, we should try it," Ryder said, impressed and in agreement with Nicole's proposal.After deciding on their next steps, the team got busy implementing their plan."Done!" they exclaimed, as the clock neared noon.With a collective cheer, they finally completed the program on Nicole's computer."It's perfect timing. You can take the program with you, and our mission here is accomplished," Preston said with a sigh of relief. He had been under a lot of pressure these past few days, worried about affecting Nicole's work."Thank you all," Nicole expressed her gratitude. "Since it's lunchtime, let's eat together.""Sounds good, I'm starving after working all morning," Preston said, rubbing his stomach."Let's go then," Ryder and Gary agreed.Nicole smiled, "I'm paying, as a thank you for your help.""No need for that," Gary laughed. "We're friends, aren't we? It would be odd to be so formal.""Exactly, because you're friends, I want to treat you. How else will I have the
"We always tell the truth," Gary said earnestly.Nicole, smiling, complimented the group, "You've all improved a lot since five years ago."Their conversation flowed effortlessly, and before they knew it, lunch was over.As Nicole and Jared prepared to leave, Gary said, "Let's catch up again soon. I'm looking forward to your good news."Nicole nodded, understanding he was referring to the Water Crest program. "Definitely," she replied.After Nicole and Jared drove off, Preston also left, leaving Gary reflecting on how nice it was to work with Nicole again and how much things had changed for the better over the past five years.Back in the car, Nicole touched her laptop bag and said to Jared, "It looks like we'll have results soon."Jared, holding her hand gently, agreed, "Yes, very soon."Nicole smiled at him, "After all this time, some things are finally coming to an end.""Have you thought about how you'll accept the outcome?" Jared asked softly.Nicole nodded, "I've though
Nicole agreed, "That's a good idea. But I'm a bit worried about Uncle Dillon and Karen; they might say something that would upset Grandpa."In truth, she wasn't too concerned about Dillon, but Karen worried her."I understand. Don't worry," Daniel assured her.If Dillon or Karen said something too harsh, it could be overwhelming for Benjamin.After all, Damien was Benjamin's son. Even if he was disappointed with Damien, seeing Damien in such a state would surely be distressing.After breakfast, everyone departed from home.On the road, Nicole gazed at the bustling streets, a hint of contemplation reflecting in her eyes.Jared gently held her hand, speaking softly, "Everything will be alright.""Mm," Nicole nodded. She wasn't really worried, just suddenly feeling a bit overwhelmed.The police car, taking Damien to court, was already leaving the police station, escorted by other police vehicles in the front and back.Following their planned route, everything was going smoothly
"Well, it's not like you're dead yet," one of the men shrugged indifferently.Damien seethed with anger. "Don't you want to get information from me anymore?""Hmph, when our boss arrives, you won't have a say in what you want to say or not," the man replied fiercely.Damien couldn't help but feel frustrated. At this point, he didn't have much leverage, so he had to ensure his own interests were secured. Otherwise, if they burned bridges, he'd be the one left in a tough spot."Boss!"As he was contemplating, Damien heard several people calling out, prompting him to look up.Frowning at the man approaching, Damien asked, "Are you Scorpio?""Speak," Scorpio responded tersely, not saying much else.Damien knew Scorpio wanted him to divulge information about Water Crest, but he wasn't foolish enough to reveal anything at this point.Struggling to stand up, Damien negotiated, "This place isn't secure. You have to take me to a safe location before I can tell you anything.""Actually
"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