Nicole, with a knowing smile, remarked, "In business, there are always winners and losers."Lawrence, with a casual shrug, responded, "If that's the case, then yes, I've lost this round.""But you didn't have me brought here just to say you're giving up, right?" Nicole questioned, noticing Lawrence's tendency to beat around the bush."Absolutely not," he replied, shaking his head. "Since I've lost, I need to make some moves to even things out."Nicole nodded, understanding. "Alright, then. What is it you're after?"It was clear Lawrence had a specific reason for bringing her here."You know what I want," he said, looking directly at Nicole."If it's the Fire Crest and Water Crest you're after, that's going to be tough. I'm not exactly planning on dying anytime soon." Nicole knew that without her death, the Crests wouldn't transfer ownership.Lawrence simply looked at her, his silence making his intentions unclear.Nicole maintained her composure, facing Lawrence with a calm an
In the backyard of the villa, a helicopter waited on the lawn, ready for immediate departure from San Joto."Get in," Lawrence said to Nicole, noticing her momentary pause."Alright," Nicole responded, stepping into the helicopter first. She figured it was best to go along for now, seeing no viable way to escape. Resistance seemed futile.With everyone on board, the helicopter lifted off, quickly gaining altitude and leaving the area behind.As the helicopter shrank to a mere speck in the sky, Doretta made her appearance, her expression one of deep concern. Without wasting a moment, she hurried away from the scene.Her destination was clear: the Riddle residence.In the study, Jared frowned at Doretta. "Why are you here?""Nicole has been taken by Lawrence," Doretta said through clenched teeth. "After discussing the plan with Nicole, I left first."But then, I remembered something and turned back, only to see someone taking Nicole away."I followed them and discovered she was
Knowing how perceptive Nolan was, Jared felt somewhat resigned but knew he couldn't tell the truth at this moment. He could only say, "Doretta came because of something else. I have to go to the airport now and leave with Mommy. We'll be back soon.""Oh, okay," Nolan agreed, but it didn't seem like Jared had convinced him. It looked more like he didn't want to waste time, saying, "Then go find Mommy.""Mm." Gently touching Nolan's head, Jared said meaningfully, "Take good care of your sister, and don't leave the sight of adults."Looking at Jared, Nolan bit his lip and finally nodded. "I know."Although the specifics of the situation were unclear to him, Nolan could tell that Jared's explanation was an oversimplification. He also grasped that Jared's reference to "adults" wasn't limited to Gloria and Daniel, but included the security personnel stationed near their kindergarten, tasked with their protection.Nolan was deeply concerned, suspecting something significant had occurred.
"Maybe we should check into a hotel first. Nicole might try to reach us," Doretta said through clenched teeth.She was sure Nicole had a plan; otherwise, Nicole wouldn't have willingly gone with Lawrence. Not only did Nicole stop her from revealing herself, but she also told her to send a message directing them to come here—there had to be a reason behind Nicole's actions.After thinking for a moment, Jared agreed, "Let's go to the hotel for now."For now, all they could do was wait. Plus, Jared had some things to take care of.Soon, they reached the hotel and got settled. They needed to wait for more news, but they couldn't just sit around; they needed a plan of action.****Meanwhile, Lawrence had made sure Nicole was comfortable, but he didn't take her to his main base. Instead, he chose a small fishing village nearby.The village reminded Nicole of Crescent Island, where they had once lived, but here, it wasn't an isolated island. It was still hard to communicate with the ou
Lawrence knew Nicole would be upset, so he didn't insist she stay. "Alright then, you rest," he said, getting up to leave.He understood she needed time, especially since he could easily control her. He was confident she would give in once Nolan and Lana arrived.As Lawrence walked away, Nicole's expression turned cold. 'Lawrence, you shouldn't have brought Nolan and Lana into this.'Pretending to sleep until the noises outside stopped, Nicole peeked out and saw the guards. They were still there, but they had nodded off, giving her an opportunity.After securing the door, Nicole retrieved her hidden watch and sent a message.****Meanwhile, Doretta knocked on Jared's door. "Nicole sent a message.""Come in," Jared's voice came from inside the room, prompting Doretta to enter, followed by Charlie.Jared stood by the window, gazing outside into the night.Turning at the sound of their entrance, Jared asked Doretta, "Where is she?""Nicole sent her location but said not to rescu
Doretta shook her head. "No, but I believe Nicole is looking for an opportunity, or waiting for the right moment to coordinate with us from inside.""Understood," Charlie nodded, thinking that Nicole might only have a preliminary plan, and the specifics would need to be adjusted based on the situation."Have you arranged everything on your end?" Doretta casually asked Charlie."Yes, I've assigned our most reliable people," Charlie replied.After giving Charlie a serious look, Doretta cautioned, "Be careful when carrying out the mission. Lawrence may seem like a gentleman, but he's actually ruthless."She thought about how skillfully Lawrence had dealt with Everett without raising any suspicion, highlighting his capabilities. Moreover, being on his turf in Mecrounia made him even more dangerous and difficult to deal with.Charlie gave Doretta a thoughtful look. "You be careful too.""Mm," Doretta responded before leaving.As Charlie watched Doretta walking away, his expression b
Seth's eyes narrowed slightly as he inspected the ID; it was fake, confirming his suspicion about the visitors. He returned the ID without revealing his realization and subtly signaled toward a hidden spot with his other hand.They had a team positioned here specifically to ensure Nolan and Lana's safety, determined not to let any potential threat into the kindergarten.A responding whistle came from the hidden spot upon receiving Seth's signal."Now, can I go in?" the visitor asked, visibly growing impatient. The teacher's been gone a while. He knew that if they don't do something soon, they would blow their cover.Anne came back, yelling, "Don't open the gate! The Wi-Fi is working, and there's something off about these people."The visitor frowned. He had hoped to sneak in without causing a scene, but now he saw no other option but to use force.He banged on the gate, frustrated, and told his group, "We'll break in. We have to catch them."With that, four more people got out o
Charlie had wanted to say something, but he stayed silent. He watched as Jared walked away and disappeared from view."What's Mr. Johnston up to?" Doretta asked, puzzled."I'm not sure," Charlie replied with a shake of his head. Deep down, he felt like it had to do with Nicole. It made sense since Jared was really worried about her. Inside, he thought, 'I hope this ends soon. Then we won't have to worry all the time.'Doretta sighed. "Okay, I'll report the updates to Zane too. He's really worried about Nicole.""Did you set everything up for the deployment?" Charlie asked without thinking."It's all set, just waiting for Nicole's signal," Doretta replied."That's good," Charlie seemed somewhat relieved. However, he knew they couldn't relax and had to stay alert for any changes in the situation.****Jared quietly left the hotel and headed to where Nicole was staying. He managed to bypass the guards and entered the room where Nicole was confined."How did you get here!" Nicole
"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