Ch. 411..420
Read Novel "Divorced Billionaire Heiress" chapter No.411
Eric Ferguson rolled his wheelchair to the bathroom.
Since he injured his leg, he wore baggy pants so that it was not difficult to take off. However, after some thought, he still put on his pajama pants.
After all, he could not do anything at the moment, so he should not go too far.
If Nicole was frightened by him, she might run away in a fit of anger.
Eric surveyed his bare upper body with satisfaction. His chest was strong and lean, with well–defined lines. His sculpted muscles on the back and abs moved gently with breathing. His usual cold vibes were replaced with charisma,
Toto‘s reminder came to Eric‘s mind.”
Mr. Ferguson, your body and face are simply amazing! No woman will be able to resist your appeal, so during the bath, you don‘t have to say anything. Just let Ms. Stanton indulge and enjoy her view. If she‘s a little shy, it means that it‘s a success!”
Eric was a little doubtful, but he would give it a shot.
A few minutes later, he heard the sound of someone opening the bedroom door.
Eric recollected his expression and opened his eyes to check himself out in the mirror. He casually tousled his hair s o that it looked naturally messy.
The sound of footsteps stopped outside the bathroom.
“Knock knock, knock–––”
Someone knocked on the bathroom door.
Somehow, Eric felt a little nervous.
“Nicole, I‘m inside, just come straight it.”
Eric took a deep breath, made himself look extremely calm, closed his eyes, and told himself, “Don‘t be nervous!”
Toto‘s reminder came to mind again.” Just close your eyes and let Ms. Stanton enjoy your body…”
Soon, water pattered against the side of the bathtub.
Nicole turned on the tap to get the water to the right temperature. Her movements were gentle and soft as she covered his leg with a towel to avoid water splashing on it.
Eric‘s eyes were still closed, but his breathing became unconsciously rapid.
A warm towel touched his back as she began to wipe him.
Eric‘s whole body unconsciously became tense.
The towel moved from his back to his arms lightly and carefully.
Eric‘s face was taut as he tried to suppress his nervousness. There was only the sound of rushing water in the bathroom.
The two people were breathing carefully with the water splashing in the background.
There was a deep silence that felt a little off.
Eric could not help but wonder, ‘Why didn‘t she speak? Why didn‘t she have any reaction?
Toto said to him earlier. “During the bath, Ms. Stanton will definitely try to find a topic and will probably be flustered because she can‘t think straight when she‘s staring at your sexy body. You just need to give simple answers and don‘t dive too deep into the topic.”
‘But… She didn‘t find a topic… If she‘s shy, a little conversation will ease the awkwardness, right? If she‘s angry, then her actions shouldn‘t be so gentle and careful, right?‘
Eric could not help but furrow his eyebrows in thought, wondering if he should speak first.
The warm towel behind him suddenly left his body. Eric felt some discomfort when the warmth was gone.
The person behind him held two brand new bottles of shower gel and asked in a rough and hoarse voice, “Mr. Ferguson, do you want the mint or strawberry scent?!
Eric‘s body suddenly stiffened. He opened his eyes abruptly with a piercing chill.
In an instant, Luca‘s fierce expressionless face appeared in the mirror. Luca‘s sleeves were rolled up as he held two bottles of body wash. He looked to be in a tangle as he asked again, “Which scent do you want?”
Eric just felt like dashing out of the bathroom, but his right leg would not allow it!
He stared at Luca in shock. His eyes sank a little, but his face remained extremely calm, stoic, and grim.
“Why are you here?” Eric asked, gnashing his teeth.
The tension, restraint, and the rich series of activities I fantasized about all originated from Luca, the bodyguard?! Where‘s Nicole?!
Read Novel "Divorced Billionaire Heiress" chapter No.412
Luca‘s shoulder even had another towel to wipe Eric. His technique was like a professional!
If Luca had not suddenly opened his mouth, Eric would not have known that the one who came to give him a bath was actually Luca!
Eric was angry and annoyed because another man touched him, but he did not know who to take it out on.
Luca‘s fierce face was calm as he said, Ms. Stanton ordered for me to give you a bath and massage…”
Although Luca, as a bodyguard, felt very uncomfortable doing such a thing, this house only had two other men. That fat butler was snoring and could not be awakened even when Luca kicked him. Thus, Luca could only sacrifice himself.
Eric‘s eyes narrowed sharply. His face was complex and deep at this time. His chest was heaving violently, and his mind was blank.
He clenched the handle of the wheelchair with a grim face.
Luca looked a little hesitant as he made up his mind. “Mint scented then…”
It did not seem appropriate that a big man would use strawberry–scented body wash.
After that, Luca skilfully pumped the body wash onto his hand and was about to lather it onto Eric‘s body when Eric interrupted him
Eric‘s voice was deep, oppressive, and restrained.
“Get out!” He said through clenched teeth.
Even if Eric felt cold, he could not stand the idea of Luca touching him so intimately again.
He knew that he would go crazy.
Luca‘s fierce face froze slightly as he was a little surprised, ‘Why did his attitude change so fast? Wasn‘t he enjoying it just now?”
Luca held the bottle of body wash and looked tangled.
“Mr. Ferguson, you really don‘t want a massage?”
‘It‘s Ms. Stanton‘s orders..!
Eric glared at Luca with a sharp and cold gaze. His face was extremely glum. “Do you need me to repeat myself?!”
Luca pursed his lips. “Okay then, since h e refused, I can‘t force him…!
He put down the things in his hand, turned around, and left.
Eric stayed in the bathroom for a full three minutes, trying hard to calm himself down and control his emotions. “Didn‘t that fat*ss say that he‘d find a way to get rid of Luca?! Why didn‘t he show up now?‘
He calmly put on his bathrobe, wheeled himself out of the bathroom, and faintly froze when he saw the woman in the bedroom.
Nicole stood at the bedroom door and waved towards Luca before walking in.
Eric was wearing a bathrobe that revealed his well–defined collarbones. Water droplets dripped down his hair and happened to fall on his bare, sexy chest.
Nicole raised her eyebrows. A flash of light flickered in her eyes.
Eric‘s figure was indeed impeccable.
‘No wonder Eric wanted to come up with such underhanded methods. He‘s trying to seduce me?!!
Nicole‘s smile deepened. “Mr. Ferguson, are you satisfied with Luca‘s service?”
When Eric thought of that image earlier, he just wanted to rewash his entire body.
His face was taut, filled with dissatisfaction and anger.
“Nicole, shouldn‘t you give me an explanation?
“Why did it become like this? Whatever I imagined didn‘t materialize at all!”
A strange light shone in Nicole‘s eye as she looked at him.
“Although I‘m here to take care of you,
we‘re divorced, so we should avoid any misleading contact.”
Nicole deliberately emphasized the word “divorced“. Eric‘s face stiffened. The light in his eyes instantly dimmed.
Looking at her smile, the anger and coldness in Eric‘s eyes instantly disappeared.
A trace of bitterness filled his mouth.
Eric finally had a taste of this heart wrenching suffocation. There seemed to be no direction, no hope.
Her words pushed him into the abyss, leaving him powerless.
Nicole ignored his despair on Eric‘s face and smiled. “Otherwise, if word gets out, how else can we marry other people in the future?”
Read Novel "Divorced Billionaire Heiress" chapter No.413
Nicole was best at stabbing people in the heart, especially Eric‘s. It felt amazing.
Her toes rested against the door as she looked at Eric with a nonchalant smile.
“Goodnight, Mr. Ferguson.”
Nicole left without waiting for his response.
She made it so clear to him, so he would certainly understand.
If he pretended not to understand, then she had other ways to wake him up from his delusions.
His tricks were so old–fashioned!
Eric‘s gaze was dark and sullen as he stared at her departing back.
Those words were like knives stabbing at his heart. It was obviously very painful, but he could not blame anyone and could only suffer the pain because he deserved it.
The groundwork for the project from Clayton Sloan was finalized. Its specifications were very ambitious, involving a large scope. One of the most important parts was advancing the research of their current artificial intelligence project. Thus, Stanton Corporation involved J&L Corporation in the core project.
Last time, J&L Corporation‘s announcement of their Al doctor that could detect illnesses pushed them into the spotlight. They received high praise globally and gained many investors.
Stanton Corporation and Ferguson Corporation also monopolized the market in artificial intelligence.
Even so, their research and development could not stop because other countries could catch up to them quickly. If they could not keep their core technology under wraps, they would lose the opportunity to become the market leader.
Therefore, Nicole proposed for Clayton‘s project to encompass the J&L Corporation‘s research and development so that the progress could be quickened. Although this meant that the pie would be further divided, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages in the long run.
Nicole came up with this plan and discussed it with Grant early in the morning, who of course had no problem with it.
If this big pie was shared, there would be fewer envious parties.
It was just that working with J&L Corporation would inevitably involve Ferguson Corporation as well.
However, these worries were useless.
Based on Ferguson Corporation‘s strength, it would just be icing on the cake if they joined this cooperation.
The morning breeze was slightly cool and humid.
Nicole picked out a slim black dress that was embellished with tiny pearls at the hem. It was formal and elegant with a hint of liveliness that made her look valiant and stunning
As soon as Nicole came downstairs, Toto waved at her happily.
“OMG! Ms. Stanton, you‘re extraordinarily beautiful today! When the sunlight shines on you just now, you look like you were walking out of an oil painting…”
Nicole was stunned. Fortunately, she was holding onto the railing. Otherwise, she would just fall down the stairs.
Luca stood aside with his expressionless fierce face. The corners of his lips were downturned, expressing disdain for Toto‘s sycophantic behavior.
Eric sat at the dining table wearing black loungewear. Even so, he still looked reserved, cool, and noble.
His expression was gentle as if last night‘s episode did not exist.
Watching her walk down the stairs, Eric smiled slightly. “Good morning…”
Nicole raised her eyebrows. “Good morning.”
Huh, this man sure is fickle…’
Toto cooked up a feast for breakfast, with all kinds of Western and even Asian cuisine. Everything was well plated and looked very appetizing.
Since Eric did not mention the awkwardness last night, Nicole did not intend to talk about it either.
Anyway, Eric was the unhappy party.
Nicole sat at the dining table and was extremely interested to taste each dish.
Suddenly, she thought of something and looked up at him.
“By the way, I saw Ms. Ferguson when I was shopping last night.”
Eric‘s face was calm without the slightest surprise as if he had already known about it. “I know. The store manager told me about it.”
“How did she end up there?
Read Novel "Divorced Billionaire Heiress" chapter No.414
Eric Ferguson slowly ate the sushi in front of him. The delicate and elegant movements of his fingers were somewhat artistic.
His words carried a faint coldness.
“I‘m just teaching her how to be a person in the fastest way possible.”
Nicole frowned and did not understand what he meant.
Eric patiently explained, “She used to be such a snob, so she didn‘t think that she‘d one day end up serving others. This will teach her a lesson.”
Nicole raised her eyebrows and instantly understood.
It was just that to Ingrid, such a punishment was a little too harsh.
Unlike ordinary people who needed to support their families, Ingrid was a pampered young lady since birth.
Nicole could not help but sigh in her heart. Eric was so ruthless even to his sister, which made Nicole think that she should not believe Eric‘s show of Weakness.
However, from another perspective, scums like Ingrid were everywhere. The Ferguson family could afford to support Ingrid for life, so Eric was only doing so because of his feelings for Nicole.
Nicole finished her meal quickly and went to the office, Only Eric and Toto were left in Imperial Gardens.
Toto looked at Eric with shining eyes and asked him excitedly, “Mr. Ferguson, did it go well last night?”
At the mention of this, Eric could not even take another bite of his food.
His gaze turned icy in an instant as he glared at Toto. He snorted coldly and wheeled himself back to the study.
Stanton Corporation.
Nicole instructed Logan to contact Clayton Sloan to confirm J&L Corporation‘s involvement in the project before contacting Gerard Lichman to make the follow–up arrangements.
To avoid seeing Eric at Imperial Gardens, Nicole decided to take charge of this matter personally.
The three parties involved in the cooperation decided to meet at J&L Corporation to finalize the details. Since Clayton needed to understand
more about this partner, he took the opportunity to drop by and visit the R& D department of J&L Corporation.
For the afternoon meeting, Nicole went over to prepare in advance, bringing along a new project assistant, Tucker.
Tucker was a fresh graduate still doing his internship and was picked over a bunch of old–timers because he had no background. Hence, he would not be swayed easily. He had a firm stance and did not harbor any ambition or greed in his restrained and pure eyes.
Most importantly, Tucker would cherish this opportunity and work harder for this rare opportunity to prove himself because it was much better compared to moving up the ladder step by step.
Thus, Tucker was most suitable to follow up on this project.
Gerard Lichman prepared a temporary
office for them. Once Nicole and Tucker arrived, they met with Clayton‘s staff.
The meeting was scheduled for 3:00 pm.
Gerard saw Tucker behind her and raised his eyebrows slightly. “Logan didn‘t come along?”
He thought that Nicole would not feel comfortable handing over such an important project to someone else, especially a newbie.
Nicole replied, “He‘s busy with other things. This is my new assistant, Tucker.”
Gerard nodded. “Mr. Ferguson still has shares in J&L Corporation, so a representative from Ferguson Corporation will also attend this meeting.”
This was as Nicole expected, so she nodded calmly.
Anyway, Eric was recuperating at home, so he would not show up for the meeting
Someone knocked on the door at this moment. It was Clayton Sloan.
“Ms. Stanton, Mr. Lichman. Am I interrupting?”
Nicole smiled. “Welco…”
The moment Nicole saw Clayton holding a bouquet of white chrysanthemums, Nicole froze and stopped mid–sentence.
Gerard was also slightly surprised.
Clayton had a mature, steady, and mysterious temperament that carried noble indifference. The bunch of white chrysanthemums he was holding felt miserably out of place.
What is he doing?! This father and son pair took turns to give me bereavement flowers. Do they want me dead?!‘ Nicole thought to herself.
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Out of politeness, Nicole kept that thought to herself.
Clayton immediately sensed the change in Nicole‘s mood and smiled decently.
Michael asked me to give it to you. He said that you‘d like it, but I doubt it…”
With that, Clayton Sloan casually tossed the bouquet of white chrysanthemums on the side of the table and reached out to shake hands with Gerard Lichman.
What was I thinking to believe my stupid son that Nicole only likes white chrysanthemums?!‘ Clayton thought.
Nicole breathed a sigh of relief. ‘Oh… It turned out to be Lil Michael…”
At the thought of this, Nicole missed the boy because she had not seen him in a while.
Nicole regained composure and exchanged pleasantries with the rest. Gerard took a phone call and hung up after a few words.
Gerard said, “Let‘s go to the conference room. Everyone‘s here.”
Once they got to the conference room and saw the people inside, Nicole was slightly stunned.
Eric Ferguson actually came in person?!
Although Eric was sitting in a wheelchair, it did not look awkward. He still had an awe–inspiring aura and was able to command the scene.
Nicole did not say much about his arrival. The meeting went smoothly.
This project was originally Stanton Corporation and Clayton Sloan‘s
cooperation. Although J&L Corporation was involved, Gerard Lichman did not get dividends from it. Even so, the benefits from getting involved in this project were not to be underestimated.
The simple meeting was over in no time.
Clayton still had something to discuss with Nicole, so the two of them went to Nicole‘s office.
In the meeting room, Eric looked at Nicole‘s departing back with slightly narrowed eyes.
Gerard could not help but laugh. “Are you anxious now?
Eric shot a sharp glance at Gerard,” Where‘s the new assistant?”
He felt that Clayton Sloan would not be a threat to him because he had a son and was still mourning his late wife. Clayton‘s purpose of returning to Mediania was purely for business,
However, Eric felt extremely uncomfortable with that fresh graduate assistant who appeared next to Nicole.
Eric received Gerard‘s call about the meeting earlier. Before he left the house, Toto said, “You can‘t give that fresh grad a chance! Even though he can‘t compare to you, young hunks like that know how to sweet–talk women and can seduce women easily, so you have to go and intimidate him!”
Gerard‘s hand was in his pocket while he leaned on the table. His smiling eyes паrrоwеd.
“Mr. Ferguson, you actually have a sense of crisis?”
Gerard then waved and beckoned for Tucker to come in.
Tucker thought that Nicole was looking for him, but as soon as he came into the conference room, he only saw these two
big shots with an awe–inspiring aura. There was an overwhelming chill in the room
A fresh graduate like Tucker who did not have much experience walked over with restraint. He overlapped his hands and bowed slightly.
“Mr. Ferguson, Mr. Lichman, do you have any orders for me?”
Since Tucker was here to follow up with the project, he had to do whatever he was instructed to do since they were his bosses.
Eric sat in his wheelchair with a dull expression, but he had a sullen and compelling vibe that gave off an invisible pressure without him having to say anything.
He lowered his eyes to look at the minutes in front of him, then inadvertently swept a glance at Tucker, who was standing there respectfully looking bewildered.
Eric‘s voice was low and clear.
“What‘s your name?”
“Mr. Ferguson, my name is Tucker.”
Eric let out a faint “mm” and did not speak again.
The room fell into dead silence.
There was obvious nervousness on Tucker‘s youthful face. His eyes were also puzzled.
So, what exactly did they call me here for…? Tucker thought.
After a long time, Eric finally spoke.” Did you just join the workforce? Logan didn‘t come with Ms. Stanton today?”
Tucker immediately nodded and replied, “Ah yes. Logan is busy with other projects. I just joined last month.”
He was nervous, especially in front of Eric Ferguson
Thus, he unconsciously answered Eric‘s questions.
Eric looked at him for a few seconds and narrowed his eyes.
After a long time, the corner of his lips curved downward.
This project is very important, so don‘t let Ms. Stanton down. You may leave.”
Eric‘s words carried an innate arrogance and authority.
Yes, sir.”
Tucker breathed a sigh of relief and hurriedly left the conference room.
“What was that about…? Tucker thought in confusion.
Gerard tapped on the table. That‘s it?”
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Gerard Lichman thought that he could watch a good show.
Eric swept a cold glance at him.
“Nicole has high standards and won‘t even look at minions like that.”
If Tucker had even a semblance of calmness and confidence, Eric would
not let him off so simply.
Eric felt that seeing such a person as an opponent was insulting Nicole.
Nicole and Clayton had a smooth discussion because they had very similar views on most things.
It was almost half an hour later when they came out of the office.
Since Clayton still had some work to do back at the hotel, Nicole sent him out.
“Lil Michael hasn‘t shown up recently. Was he scared by the car accident last time?”
Clayton smiled politely. “He‘s even experienced a bombing, so how could he be scared? I just found him a few tutors, so he has quite a bit of homework lately…”
Nicole instantly understood.
Sigh… Kids really have no freedom… What a poor baby…‘
“If you want to see him, you can come over to the hotel anytime. He misses you.” Clayton added.
Nicole nodded. “Great!”
The two of them stood in front of the elevator. Before the elevator arrived, Eric‘s voice came from behind.
“Going home?”
Nicole was slightly surprised.
“He‘s still here?
Clayton nodded politely in greeting, to which Eric responded with the same gesture,
Eric‘s eyes were fixed on Nicole. The comers of his lips had a sly smile.
“You should be free after this meeting, right? Let‘s go home together then.”
His words were ambiguous.
‘Go home together?‘ Nicole froze for a moment. She bent her slender neck to look down at the time. It was indeed past office hours.
“I still have to…” Nicole subconsciously refused.
“Toto sent me here and left already. You can‘t just let me go back alone, right?”
Eric said lightly and with a hint of roguish persistence.
Nicole rolled her eyes. ‘What an annoying jerk!
The elevator arrived at that moment.
Clayton stood behind them like a gentleman. Eric did not intend to wheel himself in, so he looked up at Nicole with an innocent and weak expression.
Did he want me to push his wheelchair i n front of Clayton? Or did he want Clayton to push his wheelchair for him?!
Nicole thought.
The two men had comparable temperaments. It would not be good Once the balance was broken.
Nicole could not imagine Clayton pushing Eric‘s wheelchair, so she could only roll Eric into the elevator and stand behind him.
Eric was satisfied with this and smiled gently.
After two seconds, Clayton still did not walk into the elevator.
Clayton nodded politely at them and said, “I forgot to take away that bouquet of white chrysanthemums. It‘s not good to leave them here like that. We‘ll get in touch.”
Eric nodded slightly with a detached and polite smile, then reached out to press the close button.
Nicole was speechless.
The elevator was quiet for a moment.
Nicole lowered her head and sent a message to Tucker, instructing him to take note of some things.
Luca was waiting for Nicole downstairs. As soon as the elevator arrived, he immediately walked over.
Nicole stepped out of the elevator when Eric called out to her. “Nicole…”
She completely forgot that Eric was with her in the elevator.
Eric was waiting for her to push him.
Nicole paused in her footsteps and frowned. Just as she was about to go back and push him out, Luca hurriedly took a step forward.
“Miss, let me do this kind of rough work.”
Eric was rendered speechless.
Nicole nodded in satisfaction and continued to walk forward.
Laica came to Eric and pushed his wheelchair, but he was walking very fast to keep up with Nicole and did not care about the steadiness of the wheelchair.
Eric held his forehead and gritted his teeth, but there was nothing he could do.
Had he known this would happen, he would not have let Toto leave so early.
At Imperial Gardens.
Nicole wanted to go back to her room to organize some ideas from the meeting earlier and left Eric with Luca.
Once they entered the house, it was spotless. Toto wore a small pink apron and rushed over to get her shoes when he saw her come in.
“Ms. Stanton, you‘re back! You‘ve worked really hard. How on earth do people like you manage so much day–to –day and yet maintain your astounding beauty? I made you a nutritious vegetarian soup. It‘s low–calorie and delicious!
Toto looked at her with an ingratiating smile, which made Nicole speechless.
Read Novel "Divorced Billionaire Heiress" chapter No.417
Nicole smiled, “Thank you, but I‘m going upstairs first.”
“Sure, sure!”
Nicole was halfway up the stairs when Luca opened the door. She swept a glance to the back and saw Eric being pushed in.
Toto greeted Eric excitedly, which made his little pink apron sway with his movements.
“Mr. Ferguson, you‘re back! A man like you who works hard every day yet still maintains such charm is the best fit for Ms. Stanton! You two are simply perfect for each other! Sigh… I don‘t even know what words to best describe you…”
Luca was about to go upstairs after Nicole. When he heard Toto‘s words, he suddenly paused in his footsteps.
He turned around. His fierce face had a few moments of hesitation.
“I think there‘s only one way to describe him.”
Toto‘s eyes lit up. He ran over excitedly because this was the first time Luca willingly carried the conversation. It was a good sign of their strengthening relationship.
“What word?”
“Determined cripple,” Luca answered.
Nicole raised her eyebrows and could not help but laugh.
Eric‘s speechless and already dark and sullen face turned colder.
Luca was not highly uneducated and felt that there was nothing wrong with what he said. He just strode over to Nicole.
Toto froze for a moment. He could feel the gradually suffocating vibes from Eric .
He suddenly regretted looking for a sense of belonging with Luca.
What a misstep!
Eric‘s sharp gaze looked up the stairs. Nicole instantly withdrew her smile.
‘I‘m only crippled because of her! How could she laugh at me?! No conscience!
Nicole felt a little guilty and coughed slightly. “Mr. Ferguson is an extraordinary boss with tens of thousands of employees under him, so of course, he can‘t slack off.”
Their eyes met. Eric looked stunned for a moment before the corners of his lips curled up into a smile. The gloom in his eyes faded away and was replaced with tenderness.
“Nicole, you have a good eye.”
Nicole was still the best. Eric felt like his whole body was doused in honey because all he felt was sweetness. It was very comforting and warm.
This was the first time Nicole praised him like this. Turns out that I left a pretty good impression in her heart!”
Nicole breathed a sigh of relief and thought, ‘Wow, this man is easy to coax. He‘s not mad after saying such perfunctory words?!
Toto thought to himself, ‘I said the same thing all the time! Why is Mr. Ferguson so happy when Ms. Stanton says it? Is this the power of love?
Luca heard Nicole‘s words and thought that he had belittled Eric earlier. He looked at Eric very sincerely and asked, “Mr. Ferguson, would you like a bath later?”
He hoped to express his guilt with actions.
The house was completely silent.
Toto‘s eyelids twitched fiercely. He looked at Luca‘s serious face, then glanced at Eric‘s cold, stern face.
Soon, Toto understood what happened last night. My wonderful plan was ruined?!!
Nicole raised an eyebrow and saw that Eric was about to die from exasperation. She did not say a word and hurried back to her room.
Soon after, Nicole received a call from Clayton. He was asking if Nicole wanted to be his female companion for a private networking event.
Clayton‘s voice was calm as he said, “I found a clue to your car accident. It‘s related to someone who will be at the reception today.”
Of course, Nicole agreed without hesitation.
“I‘ll go right away.”
When Nicole came to Imperial Gardens, she did not pack any gowns for formal occasions. Thus, she picked out a silk dress from the dressing room. She looked incredibly stunning.
As soon as she came out of her room, Eric coincidentally came out from the study. He saw her outfit and frowned slightly, wanting to speak.
Read Novel "Divorced Billionaire Heiress" chapter No.418
Nicole looked at Eric indifferently and said, “Clayton said that he found a clue about the car accident. I‘m meeting him at a reception and will be back later.”
Eric‘s complexion became solemn and cold. He pursed his lips. “Be careful then.”
Nicole nodded and went downstairs.
Luca followed her.
Toto hurriedly caught up to them.
“I‘ll go too! Ms. Stanton, take me with you. I‘ll protect you!”
Nicole was very reluctant to speak because she felt that her words might hurt his pride.
Laca rolled his eyes and said, “Ms. Stanton is safe with me.”
“Luca, you‘re an obvious bodyguard, but I can protect Ms. Stanton covertly!
That way, it‘ll be safer.”
Toto looked at Eric expectantly. ‘Hurry! Say something for yourself!
Eric pursed his lips. “Take him with you then. If anything happens, you don‘t need to care about his survival.”
Toto was speechless.
Nicole raised an eyebrow. “Whatever…”
When they arrived at the venue of the reception, Luca got out and opened the door for her. As soon as Nicole got down from the car, she saw Clayton Sloan standing at the door.
Clayton looked like a noble and mysterious man as he stood there with such a steady and indifferent temperament.
He walked up to Nicole and nodded with a light expression. “Don‘t worry, there are no strangers around.”
The implication was that there would not be any sudden attacks.
Nicole smiled and felt relieved.
The two of them stood at the doorway and walked in one after the other. Luca lagged a few steps behind to distance himself from them.
Behind him, Toto came up and whispered, “Who‘s that big boss?”
“I don‘t know.” Luca glanced at him, not wanting to talk .
Toto was persistent. “Is he trying to woo Ms. Stanton?! You have to follow closer. How can you leave them alone?”
That man was extremely good–looking with such an extraordinary and noble temperament. Toto could tell at a glance that he was no ordinary man because that man‘s aura was comparable to Eric. Toto instantly had a sense of crisis!
Luca was expressionless and ignored Toto.
Toto slapped his thigh and looked at the useless Luca. ‘I can only rely on myself!
At that thought, Toto walked in with a straight face.
Nicole and Clayton went in and saw some familiar faces. Others were new faces.
The atmosphere of the banquet hall was pleasant with nice music from a live band. Men and women were dancing gracefully while others were mingling. It was a nice environment to network indeed!
“Turns out Mr. Sloan‘s female companion is Ms. Stanton! It seems that their cooperation is pretty solid…”
“Don‘t even think about it. If Mr. Sloan could give up Ferguson Corporation and choose Stanton Corporation, we don‘t have any more hope.”
“Oh? Is there something going on between Mr. Sloan and Ms. Stanton?”
“Shhh! Do you have a death wish?”
Those whispers drifted into Nicole’s ears, which she ignored with a smile.
Perhaps they would never know the real reason behind their cooperation.
Nicole and Clayton were also not interested in explaining themselves to everyone.
She looked at Clayton with a puzzled look. Clayton swept an indifferent glance at the gossiping people, which made them zip their mouths in an instant .
Clayton bent his arm like a gentleman. Without a word, Nicole gently took it and flashed an impeccable smile.
Their intimate gesture would only convince others of their solid and smooth cooperation Soon, three familiar people came over with their wine glasses for a toast. Nicole recognized that they were the three people who Clayton invited to the private dinner at the hotel that day.
Theodore Shaw from Shaw Company, Paul Newton from Newton & Co, and Hayden Zink from P&K Corporation,
Since the project had already been finalized, they need not walk around eggshells with Clayton, They only needed to maintain basic courtesy.
Theodore Shaw was holding a cigar and looked more casual. He smiled and looked at Nicole meaningfully.
“Mr. Sloan, had I known that you preferred ladies, I‘d have gotten my sister to go to the private dinner that day. Although my sister isn‘t as beautiful and elegant as Ms. Stanton, she‘s not too bad…”
Clayton replied, “In that case, it‘s fortunate that you didn‘t bring her.”
Theodore was rendered speechless.
Read Novel "Divorced Billionaire Heiress" chapter No.419
The remaining two could not help but laugh. Hayden Zink patted Theodore Shaw‘s shoulder and said, “If you don‘t mind that it‘s my third marriage, you can introduce me to your sister…”
Theodore rolled his eyes and gritted his teeth. “Haha…”
Paul Newton laughed at the side and raised the glass in his hand.
“No matter what, Stanton Corporation i s well–deserving of this project. Congratulations.”
Nicole raised her eyebrows and lifted her glass in response. “Thank you, Mr. Newton.”
Paul‘s eyes flickered. “I heard that Mr. Ferguson was injured. Is he okay? A few days ago, we had an appointment to go golfing, but his assistant pushed it off at the last minute. I was going to visit him, but I was just too caught up with work…”
Nicole said, “I‘m not sure.”
After all, the fact that Nicole was taking care of Eric was not known to anyone else but the Stanton family.
She did not want rumors flying all over the place
Paul laughed. “Oh, right. How would you know about Mr. Ferguson‘s condition when you‘re already separated?”
Nicole‘s smile froze slightly. Her eyes were cold as she swept a glance at Paul Newton.
Although Paul made it seem unintentional, he was deliberately bringing it up on this occasion.
Paul looked at Nicole and Clayton with a slightly surprised expression.
“Could it be that Mr. Sloan still doesn‘t know about your relationship with Mr. Ferguson…”
The other two people standing on the side looked at Paul strangely. They did not understand why he was mentioning this matter at this time.
If there was something between Nicole and Clayton, mentioning this might affect their relationship Nicole smiled faintly. Her voice was cold.
“Mr. Newton, thanks for your concern, but there‘s no need to announce my relationship with Mr. Ferguson to everyone, is there?
Paul‘s face stiffened. He smiled faintly. “It‘s a slip of the tongue.”
Clayton‘s voice was light. “Mr. Newton,
you don‘t need to concern yourself with this. I‘ve known Ms. Stanton for a long time, so there‘s no need to bring up her personal affairs.”
As soon as he said this, Clayton‘s phone suddenly rang. He frowned slightly and looked at the group. “Please excuse m
Nicole was left alone with the other three. She smiled as if nothing was wrong.
“Ms. Stanton, have you and Mr. Sloan known each other for a long time? Paul asked her probingly.
Nicole raised her eyebrows and thought that he seemed overly concerned.
“L… Won‘t tell you.”
Seeing Paul‘s stiff smile, Nicole laughed smugly and turned to find a place to sit.
Somehow, Toto came out of nowhere dressed as a parvenu. There was even a rose sticking out of his suit jacket pocket.
“Ms. Stanton, I‘ve inquired clearly…”
Nicole was startled and speechless when she saw him like this.
She wanted to pretend not to know him.
However, Toto was not self–aware and sat down by her side.
“Ms. Stanton, I just inquired about Clayton Sloan. Although he‘s Medianian, he‘s lived overseas as an expatriate for a long time and has a wide range of business. He‘s been single for so many years yet there‘s not even a single woman around him…”
Nicole frowned and interrupted him.” What are you trying to say?”
“Think about it… Such excellent conditions without a woman around him? I‘m 80% sure that he‘s gay!” Toto spoke with confidence.
Nicole helplessly rubbed her temples.
“He has a son!
Toto leaned in closer to Nicole and lowered his voice.
“I heard that his son doesn‘t even look like him. Even if Clayton Sloan isn‘t gay, I guess no one wants to be a stepmother to that kid…”
Toto sighed and held up his round chubby face with a longing look.
“They‘re both powerful men, but our M 1. Ferguson is totally clean. He doesn‘t have any messy scandals or a kid and only has eyes for you. He‘s simply so pure and noble Comparing Clayton Sloan and our Mr. Ferguson, I‘d totally choose Mr. Ferguson if I‘m a woman!”
Read Novel "Divorced Billionaire Heiress" chapter No.420
Nicole picked up her glass and took a big sip of wine. She did not want to talk to Toto.
She just wanted to pretend that she did not know him!
The one–sided conversation between Toto and Nicole quickly drew the attention of the others. Paul Newton was undeterred and came over with his glass of wine. He looked at Toto strangely.
This man is…”
Nicole had no intention of introducing Toto.
On the contrary, Toto stood up and scrutinized Paul. Paul‘s eye had a complex desire that seemed to carry a bit of hatred and malicious intent.
Toto laughed. His eyes narrowed into slits as he went over to shake Paul‘s hands.
“Oh my! It‘s been such a long time!”
Paul pondered for a moment. Seeing how familiar this man acted, they must have met before, but Paul could not remember who it was.
He smiled stiffly. “Yes, yes. I saw that you and Ms. Stanton are having a nice chat. Am I interrupting?”
“Of course not!”
Toto waved his hand. He was calm, frank, and not at all restrained.
At first glance, Toto looked like someone well–acquainted with the people here.
There was not a single flaw in his act.
Paul smiled meaningfully at the two people.
“Ms. Stanton, you‘re truly so beautiful that there are men around you everywhere you go…”
“How could someone like us be worthy of Ms. Stanton? Toto interrupted him and looked at Paul Newton seriously.
Although Toto did not know who Paul was, Paul looked like a rich man and clearly had bad intentions for Nicole.
“You see, I‘m so fat and dumb, and you‘re so old. Let‘s not make a fool of ourselves. People like Ms. Stanton only deserve people like Mr. Ferguson…”
Paul initially had a cunning smile, but it quickly faded upon hearing Toto‘s words.
‘He‘s calling me old?!”
Paul asked, “Which company are you from?”
He smiled sincerely and was very curious.
However, his eyes looked dangerous.
It was as if Paul could easily bankrupt that company as soon as Toto told him. He had the ability to do so.
Toto said, “I‘m not telling!”
The atmosphere was instantly stagnant.
Nicole was considering whether to say a couple of words for Toto, but she inadvertently met Clayton‘s gaze from not far away.
Clayton hung up the phone and walked over briskly. His face was a little glum. H e grabbed Nicole‘s wrist and whispered i n her ear.
“He‘s awake and can speak. The doctor told us to hurry over….”
That driver woke up?
Nicole was shocked and followed him without a word.
No one noticed that Paul Newton‘s face instantly changed after Clayton said this.
Toto looked at Paul hesitantly and trotted after Nicole.
However, he was still too late.
Nicole and Clayton already left.
Luca hurriedly followed in another car and soon disappeared into the night.
Toto waved his hand. No one waited for him because he was too slow.
Nicole sat there nervously. “Is he really awake?
Clayton let out a low chuckle. The expensive watch on his wrist reflected the cold streetlights amidst the darkness.
“No, that person can‘t be saved at all.”
Nicole froze. “So, it‘s a trap?”
She suddenly thought of what Clayton said earlier and had an epiphany. “The mastermind behind this is one of those three?”
Clayton gave her an appreciative look 4 Right.”
Nicole‘s heart instantly sank.
She had been guessing that it was her enemies, but she had not offended any of those three before…
“Could it be because Clayton chose Stanton Corporation for the project?!
Nicole raised her eyes and met Clayton‘s gaze.
His voice was cold and deep. “You guessed it right. It‘s indeed because of the project.”
Nicole had a complicated expression before she calmed herself down.
“How did you find out about them?”
Clayton‘s eyes were cold. His voice was icy.
“I‘ve placed eyes around them and just got the news. They‘ve sought the same private detective, who earns commission by laundering money for the rich and transferring assets abroad. That extra money in the driver‘s bank account came from this private detective‘s offshore account.”
Nicole was shocked. So, is it really them?”
She had an intuition that it was Paul Newton.
Although Theodore was rude, he was a straightforward person. Hayden Zink had always been sly and careful. Only Paul Newton revealed a malicious intent in his words.
It made her extremely uncomfortable.
“We‘ll know soon,” Clayton said.