"What should we do then?" Lulu asked, filled with concern."Let's keep an eye on Doretta for now, to see exactly who she is and what she intends to do," Nicole decided.Given that Doretta had already moved into Ellar's house, it seemed likely her target was Ellar. Now that they suspected Doretta's identity was problematic, surveillance could be more focused, potentially revealing her true intentions.Directly informing Dexter and Emma wasn't ideal without concrete evidence.Furthermore, even if they believed the suspicions about Doretta, she might simply find another way to achieve her mission if her initial plan was thwarted. That could lead to even greater danger outside their control."Alright then." Understanding Nicole's reasoning, Lulu reluctantly agreed."Ms. Riddle, let me handle this matter," Patricia offered, her gaze turning serious."Okay," Nicole agreed. Since Patricia had encountered Doretta and had been investigating, she was indeed the most suitable to handle the
Time flew, and dusk arrived quickly.Nicole left work to find Jared waiting for her.Getting into the car, Nicole smiled at Jared and asked, "Have you been waiting long?""Not at all." Jared gently took Nicole's hand, his voice soft. "You look tired. Was it a busy day?"Leaning her head on Jared's shoulder, Nicole replied softly, "It was okay."She didn't have any problems with her work. It was just that the issues with Everett seemed to have no beginning or end, leaving her feeling somewhat gloomy. However, she didn't want to tell Jared about this just yet, not until she had some evidence.Jared looked down at Nicole and gently squeezed her hand, saying, "Tell me if something's bothering you. Don't carry it all by yourself."A warmth flickered through her heart, and Nicole smiled, saying, "Don't worry, I can handle it."Hearing this, Jared stroked Nicole's hair, understanding that she wasn't ready to tell him yet, so he let her be.Feeling a pang of heartache, Jared held Nico
"Emma wants Doretta to be her daughter-in-law," Gloria said after a moment of thought. "I've met her once. She seems nice, and she and Ellar seem well-suited."Nicole couldn't help but sigh quietly, as she expected this topic to come up."It also depends on what Ellar wants," Nicole said calmly.Gloria sighed. "Emma mentioned that Ellar always avoids the topic. That's why she asked if you could talk to him.""Mom, even if Ellar listens to me, I can't get too involved in his love life. It's something he needs to decide," Nicole said, looking troubled."Right, it's best to let them figure it out," Daniel added.Gloria frowned at Daniel. "But Emma is worried.""Mom, I understand your concerns, but love can't be forced. We wouldn't want to hurt Doretta or Ellar, would we?" Nicole explained, hoping Gloria would understand.Gloria looked confused. "Just letting them get to know each other isn't the same as rushing into marriage. How would that hurt them?"Nicole continued to persuad
Nicole gently patted Nolan's head and said softly, "You don't need to worry about this."The situation with Doretta was indeed complicated. Nicole was grateful that she had managed to persuade Gloria to rethink her approach, at least temporarily. She hoped that after Gloria talked to Emma, some of the pressure on Ellar would ease.However, Nicole knew that Doretta's matter couldn't wait any longer. It needed to be investigated thoroughly and soon.When Nolan noticed Nicole's serious expression, he frowned slightly, becoming more curious about Doretta.After putting Nolan and Lana to bed, Nicole and Jared returned to their room.Jared gently stroked Nicole's hair, his voice soft as he reassured her, "Don't worry, everything will be alright."Nicole bit her lip and nodded at Jared's words. "Yeah."She understood Jared's confidence that the situation would be resolved, but she couldn't shake her anxiety. With Everett pressing hard and Emma unaware of the situation, wanting Doretta
Jared said, "Be careful and don't let Everett's men know.""I understand," Max replied, determination shining in his eyes.He started the car and drove Jared away from Riddle Corporation.Meanwhile, Lulu and Patricia had arrived at Nicole's office.Lulu whispered, "Nicole, we've checked the project proposal Ellar received. The project itself seems fine. I think Everett must be up to something else."Patricia added, "Right, even if he underestimates Ellar, he probably wouldn't try that method again.""But if that's the case, what is Everett planning?" Patricia asked, her brow slightly furrowed.After taking a moment to think, Nicole turned to Patricia. "Let's take our time with this. As long as Ellar hasn't signed any contracts, Everett can't carry out any plans."Lulu tilted her head, studying Nicole. "It seems like you've discovered something important?" Nicole doesn't seem worried, so Lulu felt she must have found a more crucial clue.With a sigh, Nicole responded, "It's not
"No, Patricia knows her boundaries," Nicole affirmed, her trust evident in her eyes. After all, Patricia was professionally trained and knew how to remain rational when needed."That's reassuring," Lulu relaxed a bit, understanding that Patricia was indeed the most suitable person for the job at the moment."And you?" Nicole looked up at Lulu. "How are things on your end? Going smoothly?"Lulu nodded. "Everything's fine, don't worry.""Good," Nicole nodded in satisfaction, confident that leaving company matters in Lulu's hands was the right choice."Nicole, I know you've been busy, and more challenges may arise. Don't worry, I'll keep an eye on the company. If there's anything I can't handle, I'll consult with your brothers. Just focus on what you need to do," Lulu said seriously, her eyes earnest.Nicole felt warmth in her heart and smiled. "Don't worry, I'll manage.""I believe you can handle anything. Even if Everett is cunning, you'll find a way to deal with him," Lulu said
Patricia bit her lip, her eyes narrowing slightly. Doretta didn't often come to Ellar's company; she spent more time at home. Patricia wondered, 'So, to figure out what Doretta's up to, do I have to go visit Ellar's place?' The thought of going to Ellar's house made Patricia hesitate."Never mind, let's see. It might be better if Ellar arranges for Doretta to be at BayCorp. That way, it would be easier to keep an eye on her." Speaking to herself, Patricia then dialed Nicole's number."Ms. Riddle..." Patricia began to share her thoughts with Nicole.There was silence on the line, and Nicole didn't immediately respond, making Patricia even more uncertain, wondering if Nicole disagreed with her suggestion.Nicole finally spoke, "Even if Doretta comes to the company, she won't stay there all the time. She'll still go back home in the evening."This way, she can keep tabs on the household and have the opportunity to get involved with the company's affairs, which could be more disadvant
Nicole replied with a warm smile, "Just tell me if it gets overwhelming.""Sure thing," Lulu replied before heading out.Nicole got back to work and, in no time, it was noon.They decided to have lunch at a nearby restaurant, chatting casually as they ate."Martin should have found Cindy by now, right?" Lulu asked casually."I'm not sure; he hasn't sent any updates," Nicole replied, also finding it strange that there had been no word from Martin. She wondered whether he hadn't found Cindy yet or if, having found her, he was too overjoyed to share the news.Lulu teased with a knowing smile, "He must have made up with Cindy and is too happy to remember us. You know, the thrill of romance."Nicole shook her head, half amused, half exasperated. "Stop gossiping, let's eat.""Hehe, I'm just showing concern for them," Lulu chuckled.After lunch, they headed back to the office.Nicole was on her way when Patricia called her."You're going to Ellar's house?!" Nicole was surprised, bu
"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