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
After getting into the car, Nicole spoke softly, "Good morning, Adolph. Let's go.""Right away," Adolph replied, starting the car and steering toward Apex Corp's headquarters.Back at the hotel, Jared hung around the room. His sole purpose on this trip was to be with Nicole; he had no work lined up.Jared's eyes took on a cold glint as he was standing by the windows.After a brief silence, he dialed Zane's number. "Zane, they're making their moves.""Got it. I'll arrange assistance and share some new leads. Let's meet," Zane responded."Alright," Jared ended the call.After he stowed away his phone, his gaze out the window hardened even more.***Meanwhile, Nicole and Adolph reached Apex Corp's headquarters.After explaining her visit, the receptionist guided her to the meeting room."Please wait; Mr. Martinez will be here soon," the receptionist informed Nicole."Thanks," Nicole nodded and took a seat, Adolph standing behind her.Soon, footsteps approached from outside th
Reggie harbored a genuine curiosity about Nicole. With a collaboration in the works, he naturally desired to meet her in person.Nicole's eyes narrowed slightly; she was unsure whether to fully believe Reggie's words. Nevertheless, his expression seemed genuinely earnest.During their conversation, Reggie's secretary returned, carrying a file."Mr. Martinez," the secretary handed the file to Reggie.Reggie, in turn, passed it directly to Nicole. "Please, take a look at this."Nicole opened the file, looking surprised. "Mr. Martinez, what does this mean?"It was a project proposal, one that Apex Corp had never publicly disclosed. This implied she was the sole person outside of Apex Corp to have laid eyes on this plan."I believe this proposal could use some refinement. I hope you can assist me with it," Reggie stated straightforwardly.Nicole was taken aback. "You want me to revise it?" She thought, 'What's happening? This is a massive investment project, and he's asking for my