"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