All eyes were on Norah.They could not believe that the real culprit turned out to be the adopted child of the Riddle family.Stanley's words made Norah feel humiliated as if she was in a slow process of death.She did not expect that the backstage crew would have filmed what she had done that day. When the class teacher found her, she could not even find a word to respond.If she still wanted to stay at the Royal Creek Institute, she would have to apologize to Nicole in public. Otherwise, she would have to leave school today.Norah had no choice but to grit her teeth and agree. But the sense of humiliation was far stronger than she had imagined in front of the public.Especially when the person who supervised her apology was Stanley, she could not feel more humiliated than this. Stanley, her brother who used to love her, was now looking at her with frosty eyes.Looking at Spencer and Samuel not far under the stage, she saw their expressions change from shock to disdain. She had
She let out an ambiguous smile, and Nicole shot a glare at her. "Stop being gossipy. I'm not interested in him."Lulu grinned. "Of course, you are only interested in Jared."Nicole blushed and stared back at Lulu. "How dare you ridicule me?""How dare I?" Lulu ran.Nicole gave chase and laughed with Lulu.In the distance, Stanley saw Nicole so happy and smiled. 'She finally looks like a schoolgirl, unlike her over-levelheadedness and apathy. Her personality is getting warmer and warmer recently.'Since the Norah incident, Nicole had been busy with class affairs.Two days flew by, and it was the day of the party. At nightfall, the Johnston Mansion was brightly illuminated. Expensive cars pulled into the mansion, one after another. VIPs and celebrities emerged and entered the mansion.As San Joto's first family and business, the Johnston family's party was extraordinarily grand. Even Sebastian's son was present. The Holder family, the McCarthy family, and others came to congratul
It turned out that she was the biological child of the Riddle family and the much publicized Nicole whom Sebastian met personally a while ago.Most people had only heard of her name, and they did not expect her to be so beautiful. She and Jared looked like a perfect pair standing together.Murphy had seen Nicole at the airport gate, but she was mysterious in her baseball cap, and he could not see her face clearly. He just did not expect that she would look so stunning after dressing up. Murphy was completely enchanted.Even Castor was surprised by Nicole's beauty.'Damn it, Jared. Why can he have such a beautiful girlfriend?'His father had told him that Nicole was just a humble child of the Riddle family, and he did not give a second thought to her. Instead, he wished Jared would marry this girl as soon as possible so that it would be impossible for Jared to have another marriage tie with another family. Besides, this would also let the board of directors know Jared was not up to
Harvey was exasperated, looking extremely displeased.Edwin knew he had said the wrong thing and dashed over to Preston."What happened? Your sister and Jared are really a couple?"Preston was also surprised. He rarely went home and did not know that Nicole was betrothed to Jared. No wonder the two of them were so close. Besides, he could always see Jared's car in front of the café across the street from the school, so he presumed Jared was there for Nicole.Chloe, who was afraid of not getting into the limelight, had arrived much early, thinking of seeing Jared and perhaps becoming his partner. But she did not expect that Nicole was one step ahead of her. What upset her even more, was that Nicole and Jared were coming together.'Wasn't she scared of losing Jared when she declared her sovereignty by publicly announcing their marriage contract?'Annoyed by those who came to say hello, Chloe quickly excused herself and walked toward Nicole and Jared."It's been a long time, Jared.
Mr. Johnston Sr. looked at Mr. Riddle Sr. and could not help but smile. "I feel better now, tougher than before.""Good to hear." Mr. Riddle Sr. smiled gently.Mr. Johnston Sr. watched Mr. Riddle Sr. come with his sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren and was extremely hospitable. "Come in. Please be seated."While speaking, he led Mr. Riddle Sr. to the sofa area, which was his exclusive lounge and where no others would come to disturb. This showed how much Mr. Johnston Sr. attached great importance to the Riddle family.Raine, Chloe, Karen, and Dillon had never received such attention before. They walked over with their chins held high. Meanwhile, Daniel, Gloria, and their sons were much humbler, and their five handsome sons caused a lot of discussion among the ladies. Damien and Gloria sat down with Everett first, followed by Dexter and Emma, who followed Emery and Alex, filling the VIP seats.Not a single person did not envy the Riddle family. Everyone else consciously stay
"What else can I do?" He was still staring at Nicole with no expression on his face, but his eyes were constantly surging with sadness and helplessness, looking lifeless.He thought of the first time he met Nicole. Everything was so innocent and beautiful. Back then, he was the same age as Nicole, but he was much shorter than her. During their training in the organization, he could only play the role of a follower every day.His thoughts traveled far into the past, his eyes looking at Nicole with his hands clenched into fists. He met Nicole much earlier than Jared did, but Nicole was seeing Jared instead of him. He felt useless. After leaving the organization, he felt like he was not even qualified to speak to her.Lloyd's gaze grew heavier and heavier, and he could not take his eyes off Nicole."Can I still get back what I have missed?" He turned his head suddenly and asked Nachelle. He was a little drunk, his eyes filled with a young man's ignorance and confusion.Knowing how de
What was even more surprising was that Nicole was not nervous or feel honored at all when Sebastian greeted her. She just nodded her head and said unhurriedly, "Yeah, my class finished early today, so I came early."Sebastian smiled and glanced at Nicole. "You dress like a girl today, and you dress up like this more often in the future."It surprised everyone that the prudish Sebastian would coddle Nicole. People started to discuss whether Nicole was a relative of Sebastian. But no one had ever heard that the Riddle family and the Wyance family were related.Jealousy filled someone's eyes in the dark while people kept speculating about their relationship.Joyce, who had been hoping that Martin could put in a good word for her in front of Sebastian, was eating her heart out as Nicole enjoyed the privilege of talking to Sebastian directly. She looked weak in contrast. No wonder the McCarthy family lost.She became apprehensive, unsure if she could achieve her goal these days. It did
The party was still ongoing. Nicole went to find Lulu and June while Jared was meeting people. The Barrera family and the Wallace family were also considered prominent families, so they also attended the party.Nicole smiled when seeing June dressed so beautifully today. "Nice dress."June blushed. "Thank you. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't be able to attend." It was Nicole who gave her the invitation card. Not even her family members got invited. So her stepmother and younger sister did not come and were jealous of her."Don't mention it. Mr. Johnston Sr. gave me extra invitation cards." Nicole pretended to be nonchalant. She then glanced in a direction. "Samuel and Spencer are hanging around over there. Why are you standing here and not going over to talk to them?"June understood what Nicole meant, but she was instantly smitten. "It's so awkward."Nicole smiled. "What's so awkward about it? If you are going, someone else will."In hindsight, Lulu suddenly thought of somethi
"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