Ch. 2016..2020: My Wife Is A Hacker Chapter 2016-2020

Chapter 2016

'If he had died earlier, we would've been able to get some of the inheritance. But now he's given everything to Nicole. If he dies now, we'd really be left with nothing. There's no way Nicole would give even a piece of inheritance to us. But as long as he's alive, we might be able to have some inheritance left.'

Dillon and Damien looked at each other tacitly, as if they mentally understood everything, despite not mentioning the situation verbally.

The banquet was attended by many influential individuals. The members of the Riddle family were busy accommodating it. On the other hand, Mr. Riddle Sr. was surrounded by his friends. Some were envious he had such a filial granddaughter which made Mr. Riddle Sr. even more proud.

The Riddle family put their problems aside and focused on socializing.

Jared and Nicole were much more relaxed compared to the others. Only the most important individuals were allowed to get close to them. Due to Jared's dominating presence, not many people dared bother them nor approach them.

"Go and have a rest if you're feeling tired," Jared told Nicole softly. Ever since Jared had to come socialize with Nicole, though she performed decently, it was quite evident that she tired herself out.

'I guess her previous injury had really taken a toll on her physical condition. It's not as good as it was before.'

"No, it's okay. I'm fine." Nicole shook her head lightly, saying that she could still endure for a little while longer. After all she was the star of the show tonight, so she could not simply leave the banquet.

"Congratulations, Nicole," a male voice sounded. Then, a bouquet of flowers was placed in front of Nicole's face. The fragrant and delicate scent of the flowers immediately enveloped Nicole.

After accepting the flowers subconsciously, she realized that it was Lawrence who was hiding behind the bouquet.

"Leo!" Nicole was a little surprised. She did not expect Lawrence to give her flowers.

"I apologize for being late." Lawrence smiled apologetically.

Nicole shook the bouquet in her hand. "Don't be!" Nicole still could not wrap her head around the thought of Lawrence gifting her a bouquet.

"A beautiful girl isn't complete without a bouquet of flowers," Lawrence said as a matter of fact.

"There's no need for flowers. Since you're here, do help yourself. The dance is about to start." Jared took the bouquet from Nicole and handed it over to Max before taking Nicole's hand and led her over to the dance floor.

Lawrence frowned. As he looked at Jared's figure, his eyes darkened.

"Hey, what do you think you're doing?" Nicole whined in a low voice, after being dragged away by Jared.

"Do you like the flowers he gave you so much?" Jared asked, a little depressed at Nicole's complaining.

"You not liking the flowers isn't a problem, but Lawrence is my guest. How can you just leave him there like that?" Nicole felt it was a little rude to have left Lawrence hanging there.

"He just established his own group and business communication is still quite challenging for him."

Jared's eyes went slightly cold hearing Nicole talk about this.

'Lawrence is preparing to gain a foothold here. He's preparing to commence his business over the next few days,' Jared thought as he remembered what Lawrence had said before. For the past five years, Lawrence had been thinking of ways to expand his business here for the sake of protecting Nicole when she returned.

Nicole was upset. "For the past five years, he had been very helpful to me," Nicole murmured in a low voice.

Chapter 2017

Nicole had no right to ask Jared to be grateful for Lawrence's lifesaving help, but she would never forget it.

"I understand." Jared held Nicole's hand tight. Feelings were not a bargaining chip for repayment, especially since Nicole did not like Lawrence in that way.

"Ripple Corporation would have more collaborations with Genesis Group in the future. For either personal or professional gain, I'd have to keep in touch with him," Nicole explained, biting her lower lip while looking at Jared. Nicole wanted to explain this situation clearly, in hopes that Jared would understand.

Jared was originally depressed when Lawrence showed up with a bouquet of flowers for Nicole, but now he was relieved. With his eyebrows raised, Jared's eyes sparkled with a mischievous glint. "I'll reluctantly promise to let him go since you care so much about me."

Nicole's face had a shade of red and she gave Jared a slightly vexed glance. "Who cares about you? Stop being so presumptuous."

"Am I being presumptuous? Or are you unaware of your own feelings?" Jared had a devilish grin on his face.

Nicole's explanation showed that she cared about him and did not want him to imagine things. Although he still felt moody, not wanting anyone to covet her, he understood her reasoning. In both personal and professional aspects, Nicole would have to come in contact with Lawrence. However, at least she was willing to explain, showing that he was important in her heart.

"Stop it with your nonsense," Nicole said, embarrassed. 'This man is unbelievable. How did it turn into me being the one with feelings?'

Nicole shook off Jared's hand. As she was about to turn around and leave, Lawrence approached her.

"Do you not have a suitable dance partner? If that's the case, could I have the honor to take that place?" Lawrence bowed gracefully, preparing to invite Nicole to dance.

Ever since Jared left with Nicole just now, Lawrence had been observing them. Although he could not hear what they were talking about, their expressions made him feel uneasy.

'Since when did Nicole start to rely so much on Jared? The way they looked at each other resembled a loving married couple. If I wasn't sure Nicole hadn't recovered her memories, I almost would've thought she remembered everything,' Lawrence wondered.

Looking at Lawrence's outstretched hand, Nicole's eyes showed a hint of hesitation and thrill. Before she could respond to Lawrence's invitation, someone grabbed her hand. With a spin, she was bought into the dance floor.

When Nicole realized what had happened, Jared's handsome face was right in front of her. Along with that, she was faced with deep and captivating eyes. Nicole could not help but roll her eyes, feeling speechless at his behavior.

"Who was the one who promised not to mind him?" Nicole teased.

Jared confidently replied, "In business, your interactions are strictly professional. In personal matters, you could only be friends. Dancing is breaking the rules."

With Jared still here, how could he possibly let Nicole dance with someone with ulterior motives?

"Lame excuse." Nicole once again rolled her eyes at Jared. As the music began to play, the two danced gracefully across the dance floor.

At the side, Lawrence emanated an icy aura with his darkened expression. Sensing someone coming, Lawrence regained his composure and glanced sideways, his pupils narrowing. Preston, Ellar, Gary, and Ryder...

Chapter 2018

Apart from Nicole's brother, her past suitors and Lawrence were all depressed at the scene of Jared and her dancing.

After the song ended, cheers and applause erupted in the venue. Spotlights focused on Jared and Nicole. Jared hugged Nicole's waist with a perfect ending pose. Under the spotlight, they were enveloped in a halo of light, making them shine.

After finishing their dance, Jared and Nicole stood in position, nodded to the surrounding crowd, and left the dance floor.

"Nicole, I finally get to see you."

Just as they stepped off the dance floor, a crowd surrounded Nicole. Nicole's expression stiffened slightly upon their approach. Besides Preston and Ellar, who she had seen before in the Riddle family manor, Nicole had never seen the others. However, judging by their eager expressions, Nicole could feel they were sincerely happy to see her with no bad intentions. It was just that she did not remember any of them and did not know how to react.

Sensing Nicole's uneasiness, Jared held her hand tight and said solemnly to others, "Let's talk about this later. Nicole's tired. She needs some rest."

Preston was aware of Nicole's memory loss and naturally understood Jared's intentions. So he chimed in, "She just came back and is still adjusting. You'll have plenty of chances to meet her since she's back now."

"Alright then." The crowd was a little disappointed but showed understanding.

"Settle down. You're here not to only see Nicole. Go and tend to your own matters." Preston waved them off to leave.

"We're here to see Nicole. What other matters would we have?" They were all not interested in the family business and had their own pursuits.

"Fine, you got me. Why don't we move over there and sit?" Preston offered while looking at Jared. Then he took the others to sit in another area.

Seeing that the others had left, Nicole was a little more relieved and sighed.

"That's Gary and Ryder, and that's..." Jared whispered in Nicole's ears, introducing the people to her.

"I know. I just can't seem to know how to interact with them." The information Jared once provided her naturally included these people. Nicole remembered the content. It was just that she was somewhat unfamiliar when actually meeting them.

"Take it easy. If you can't handle it, just ignore them," Jared suggested, his expression calm and natural.

Nicole frowned, looking at Jared with confusion. 'Why do I feel strange about ignoring these people?'

"Well, isn't Mr. Johnston a nip in the bud?" Lawrence chuckled, his tone meaningful.

"It's just some unimportant people." Jared's gaze darkened slightly. He scanned the people surrounding them just now and his eyes rested on Lawrence. Jared made his meaning clear—Lawrence was in the group of unimportant people.

Lawrence was speechless, but he maintained a decent smile. "Whether these people are important or not, it's Nicole's call. Mr. Johnston has no right to help her decide."

"Hmph, that's none of your concern," Jared finished and took Nicole away.

Lawrence's lips curved upwards meaningfully as he watched the couple leave, his gaze icy cold.

The grand banquet finally came to an end near midnight. After bidding farewell to the guests, the Riddle family gathered in the hall.

 

Chapter 2019

Everyone had varied expressions, but due to Mr. Riddle Sr.'s presence, they did not dare show their dissatisfaction.

"It's almost time. You should all head back." Mr. Riddle Sr. made a final call, preparing to dismiss the crowd.

"Dad, it's getting late. I'll send you back. Your health is more important," Damien said in concern.

Mr. Riddle Sr. rolled his eyes disdainfully. "You don't need to worry about me."

Damien was taken aback, and his face turned pale. Knowing that Mr. Riddle Sr. was still disappointed over the previous issue of the will, he did not dare say anything else. He lowered his head, admitting defeat.

"If that's the case, we'll get going first." Dillion submitted to the circumstances, knowing it was useless to talk further.

"Alright." Mr. Riddle Sr.'s expression relaxed a little after seeing their departure.

Dillion and Karen left with Snow and Raine, and they did not forget to glare at Nicole with resentment before leaving.

Nicole snorted coldly. She was too lazy to deal with her cousin on such occasions while knowing her brainless nature.

"Dad, we'll also return home." After Dillion left, Damien said his goodbyes and left with his family.

"Grandpa, let's get you home." Nicole felt warm while looking at her grandfather. She did not expect him to stay the entire night for her welcoming banquet.

"I'll go back on my own. You should head home soon." Mr. Riddle Sr. insisted.

Mr. Riddle Sr. was originally restless until he watched Dillion and Damien leave. Only then could he be leaving at ease. He knew Dillion and Damien would be unsatisfied with his announcement today. They would not dare make a fuss when he was present, but if he was not, Nicole would be in a bad spot. Mr. Riddle Sr. feared that Nicole could not handle them, since she had just come back.

"I'll take you home, Dad." Daniel and the butler assisted Mr. Riddle Sr. to leave the venue slowly.

"Let's get going too. There's still plenty of chances to meet next time," Nicole reminded the crowd, seeing that they were a little reluctant to leave.

"Yes, it's getting late. Let's all go home," someone agreed.

The crowd gradually left, leaving the five brothers of the Riddle family. They all turned to Nicole with concern, asking, "You must be tired. We never expected everyone to get so hyped up for your return and end this banquet this late."

"It's alright. I've got it. I'm not tired," Nicole's lips curved upwards. Everyone had a tough day since they all worked hard for tonight.

"Sean, let's not stand here and talk. We'll get going first. Nicole needs some rest," Jared voiced out softly.

"Oh, right. Let's go. Mom is probably worried at home," Stanley chimed in.

Gloria did not attend the banquet, so that she could take care of Nolan and Lana at home. She was uncomfortable leaving the two children with the nanny and worried they would be bored.

The family soon left the hotel and went straight home.

Nicole sat in Jared's car, looking a little weary.

"You must be tired." Jared gently rubbed Nicole's temples. "Close your eyes and rest for a while."

Chapter 2020

"I'm fine," Nicole muttered, shaking her head. "I just didn't think there'd be such a big crowd. I've only interacted with some of the collaboration partners. I didn't even have time to greet their plus-ones."

"There's no need for that. You'll meet the people you need to meet at the end," Jared answered. It was unnecessary to meet unimportant people.

"Who knew that I had so many connections in San Joto? But how many of my enemies showed up today?" Nicole slightly narrowed her brows. No one held any hostility toward her today, not any that she could feel.

His eyes darkening, Jared said solemnly, "Don't dwell in the past. From now onwards, you're the Chairman of Riddle Corporation. Just do things as you please. There are no permanent friends or enemies."

That one enemy who wanted to take Nicole's life was currently not in San Joto. He disappeared from sight after he and Nicole suffered heavy injuries five years ago.

As for the case where Nicole got attacked when she came back, Jared had Janus investigate it. However, they did not find any useful information. It was likely the remnants of power from Nicole's enemy, which had probably depleted over the past five years.

Understanding Jared's meaning, Nicole raised her brows and blurted out, "It seems to me you're trying to say that everyone does not matter. Then why would you prepare so much for me previously?"

Jared could have told her to ignore those who are not important.

"They're indeed unimportant to me. Because in my heart, you're the only one that matters," Jared confessed. Nicole was the only one Jared really cared for. His eyes would only focus on her, ignoring everyone else.

Nicole's mouth twitched. 'Here we go again. That wasn't what I meant.'

"Everything will fall into place. Even if you can't remember, you'll know who's important and who's not." Jared held her hand, thinking that he would be the only one Nicole cared for.

Nicole could not help but roll her eyes at Jared, sighing. "I still need to regain my memories."

After all, Nicole still had to remember the past. The feeling of not knowing or remembering anything had her feeling unpleasant, and even anxious at times.

Jared's eyes were downcast, not commenting on Nicole's response. He wanted Nicole to gain her memories back, but as soon as her memories recovered a little, Nicole would have a terrible headache.

Therefore, he did not rush to let her interact with people or events from the past, not even going on dates to familiar places. Jared was fine if Nicole never regained her memories as long as she was fine.

It was late when they got back home. Gloria was waiting for them in the living room while Nolan and Lana had fallen asleep. Seeing that everyone was back, she asked with concern, "So? How was it? Did everything go smoothly?"

"Yes, don't worry. Nicole handled the situation very well and exposed nothing." This was the common worry for everyone, that the news of Nicole's memory loss was spread. If that happened, Nicole would be in a difficult spot.

"That's good." Gloria's heart ached for Nicole while looking at her. "It'll only get harder once you take over the company."

Nicole sat down next to Gloria. "That's fine. It's better to have something to do. I can't stay at home forever, right?"

"As your mother, I really hope you'll stay at home with me every day." Gloria smiled lovingly and patted Nicole's hand.

"Mom, Nicole will get bored and unhappy if she stays in the house all day. She should be free outside," Samuel said with a proud look. Nicole's abilities should be admired by everyone.