"Nicole..." Tia looked at her, her eyes filled hesitation, as if to ask, 'Is this really okay?'"I've still got things to handle, and I'm worried I won't make it in time, so I'm actually relieved to leave this in your hands," Nicole explained. She then reassured Tia, "Don't worry, everything's been taken care of."Tia nodded, now understanding the situation.She was aware that lately, Nicole and Jared had been personally picking up Nolan and Lana for the kids' safety. Now that Nicole was entrusting her with this responsibility, and with Nicole's assurance that arrangements were in place, it likely meant someone would be there to ensure Nolan and Lana's safety. So, Tia felt a sense of relief."Okay, I'll make sure to be there early tomorrow morning," Tia said, smiling.She really adored Nolan and Lana and was more than happy to pick them up.Nicole had made these arrangements out of concern.'If someone is actually after me, it's better I keep my distance from the kids,' Nicole t
"Is Ellar's problem still not sorted out?" Jared asked, with a slight frown on his brow.Nicole shook her head in response to Jared's question. "I just can't shake the feeling that something's off," she admitted.Sighing, she said, "I guess all we can do is wait and see." If there was really an issue with Ellar, the truth wouldn't stay hidden for long.The thought that something might be amiss with Ellar lingered in her mind. The mystery deepened with Patricia's apparent unawareness of Ellar's recent activities. 'Wasn't he supposed to be with Patricia? Why would he lie about that?' Nicole pondered, a frown creasing her brow as she mulled over these questions.Jared reached out, gently ruffling her hair in a comforting gesture. "Go take a shower and head to bed. We'll figure out what's going on with Ellar in due time."Jared, despite the oddities in Ellar's behavior, didn't seem overly concerned. He believed that whatever Ellar was involved in, he had his reasons, perhaps reasons h
Nicole paused briefly, weighing her words. "Yes, and I'm going to ensure the news of my presence at the event is openly circulated."It seemed wiser not to conceal her schedule, as transparency might provoke a reaction from the opposing party.Max's comprehension dawned, his complexion turning a shade paler. "Mrs. Johnston, are you really planning to use yourself as bait?"It was evident that exposing Nicole's itinerary now would certainly draw the attention of those figures lurking in the dark.Nicole nodded affirmatively. "Since I'm their target, let them focus on me. It'll keep others out of harm's way."Considering their reluctance to confront her in San Joto, she saw an opportunity to draw them out."But isn't that exceedingly risky?" Max's worry was palpable.Nicole looked toward Jared, her lips curving into a smile. "You wouldn't let anything happen to me, right?""I'll be by your side," Jared stated, his tone solid and resolute.Nicole's expression showed a momentary f
Nicole nodded, briefly looking over the documents. "Okay," she said.Lulu, observing Nicole, frowned slightly and asked, "Something on your mind?""Yeah, it's just something I'm working on," Nicole replied, glancing up at Lulu.Lulu leaned in, her expression turning more serious. "What's going on?""It's about the Apex Corp project. I've decided to tackle it myself," Nicole revealed, her voice carrying a determined undertone.Lulu's surprise was evident. "You're actually taking that on?""Yes, I'll leave in a few days, once I've sorted things out here. Jared will be coming with me," Nicole explained.Lulu's eyes widened. "Both of you are going?""That's right," Nicole confirmed. "He's uneasy about me going solo."Lulu shook her head, a mix of disbelief and relief in her eyes. "And you were considering going alone? It's a good thing he's joining you."Nicole's laughter lightened the mood slightly. "It's just a project negotiation. I don't see why everyone's so concerned."Lul
Ellar's tone conveyed his effort to contribute positively to the lunch gathering. "I remembered how much you both liked it last time, so I grabbed it for today," he said.Lulu casually mentioned, "Well, enjoy it while you can. Nicole will be out of the country soon."Ellar's reaction was one of genuine surprise. "Out of the country? Nicole, what's the occasion?""Just some business matters. I'll be back in a few days," Nicole replied, downplaying the significance of her trip.Ellar, not privy to the details, simply nodded in understanding. "Got it."Nicole then shifted the conversation, her gaze intent on Ellar. "Before I go, is there anything you need assistance with?"Ellar, slightly uneasy under Nicole's scrutiny, averted his eyes. "No, everything's fine on my end. You don't need to worry about me, Nicole."Nicole, not entirely convinced, pressed a bit more. "Are you sure about that?"Ellar's vigorous nod seemed to affirm his words. "Really, everything's fine," he reassured
Nicole gently kissed Nolan and Lana on their cheeks, reassuring them, "Okay, I will come back soon after finishing my work."Jared affectionately patted Nolan's head. "Be sure to take good care of Lana while we're away."Nolan nodded confidently. "I will.""Daddy," Lana reached out her arms toward Jared, yearning for a hug.Jared lifted her up, and she wrapped her arms around his neck, planting a kiss on his cheek. "Daddy, I'm going to miss you so much."A look of deep love flashed in Jared's eyes as he replied, "I'll be back before you know it.""Nolan, Lana, it's almost time for kindergarten," Tia gently reminded them.After bidding their parents a reluctant farewell, Nolan and Lana waved goodbye."Bye-bye, Daddy! Bye-bye, Mommy!" they called out, their little feet dragging and their heads turning back three times to look at their parents before following Tia to the car.Nicole watched the car carrying Nolan and Lana until it disappeared from view. The sight left a bitterswe
Max pondered for a moment and said, "Alright, let's wait and see what develops."In matters as delicate as Patricia's treatment, it was best to proceed with caution, especially in the absence of Nicole, who was currently abroad. Any major decisions would have to be deferred until her return.Leaving Charlie with his thoughts, Max departed, his mind already shifting to the myriad of responsibilities awaiting him at the office. With Jared away, the burden of overseeing operations fell heavily on his shoulders.Meanwhile, as darkness enveloped the city, Nicole and Jared's plane touched down smoothly at Lanningbourg Airport. Stepping into the cool night air, they were immediately met by a familiar face."Mr. Johnston, Mrs. Johnston," Adolph greeted them with a respectful nod, his movements efficient as he opened the car door for them.Adolph was part of the same network as Patricia and Charlie, another piece in Jared's extensive and intricate web.Settling into the car, Jared address
After refreshing herself, Nicole made her way to the hotel's breakfast area. She chose a light yet nourishing meal and was on her way back to her room when she suddenly sensed someone's presence. Reacting swiftly, she stopped, narrowly avoiding a collision and a potential breakfast disaster.Nicole's gaze landed on the man before her as she stepped back, her eyes narrowing ever so slightly."Sorry, I didn't see you there. I almost bumped into you," the man offered an apology.Nicole gave him a brief, indifferent glance and shook her head, signaling that it was no big deal. She then maneuvered around him with her tray, gracefully exiting the space.The man watched Nicole leave, a shadow of intrigue passing over his eyes. He subtly slipped a button-like item into his pocket and resumed selecting his breakfast, masking any hint of the earlier incident.Meanwhile, Nicole lingered near the restaurant's entrance, discreetly keeping an eye on the man. She had caught him putting something