Category: The Divorced Billionaire Heiress

Nicole was briefly dazed. Her heart was surging with emotions.

The answer Clayton gave her was too heavy, like he had simply handed over his life to her.

She could easily control his life and death.

Nicole’s phone rang and interrupted the undercurrents of ambiguity flowing between them.

She fluttered her eyelashes and hurriedly looked down to get her phone.

It was Logan rushing her from downstairs. Nicole hung up the phone and looked at Clayton. “Do you want to stay here and rest?”

Clayton said, “No, I wanna stay with you.” He was so clingy.

Nicole nodded. When she went over to get her bag, Clayton took it for her and held her hand with his other hand.

She silently curled the corners of her lips.

Nicole suddenly thought that being held by Clayton like this felt so good.

In the elevator.

Nicole thought about it and hesitantly spoke. “Mr. Sloan?”

“Hmm?”

Nicole looked at their reflection in the mirror. When she was standing with him, his expression was mild as if nothing had happened.

“I won’t sell you to others.”

Nicole spoke in a small voice, but she was certain that he heard her.

Clayton looked sideways and raised his eyebrows. The smile on his face deepened.

“Really?”

’Why didn’t it look like that just now…?’ Clayton thought.

Nicole nodded with certainty. Her expression was firm. ” Because they can’t afford to buy you!”

’Clayton Sloan is such a valuable commodity! How can the average person afford to buy him? Who are they kidding?!’ Nicole thought.

Clayton was speechless and did not know whether he should cry or laugh. He rubbed her hair and felt a little helpless.

The two of them went out of the elevator hand in hand.

Logan was still waiting anxiously downstairs.

Seeing the two of them together in an intimate manner, Logan suddenly felt like they were such a good match.

When Nicole smiled at Clayton, she looked so relaxed and happy like it came from the bottom of her heart.

It was not at all like the time she was painfully pursuing Eric. Back then, she was always shrouded in sorrow as if she would never see any hope in her life.

Logan opened the car door for them in the back.

The two of them got into the car together and did not let go of their hands like they were glued together.

Were they showing off their love?

These two people really did not care about other people’s feelings.

Logan speechlessly drove in front and tried to reduce his presence.

He felt like his job was very difficult.

Once they arrived at the office, everyone could clearly feel Nicole’s happiness as well as the happiness of the man beside her.

Even the cleaning lady, who was always worried about losing her job, could not help but take a second glance.

Before this, Nicole always appeared cold and indifferent when she was alone. No one had seen her smiling so happily.

Moreover, Nicole and Clayton would look at each other from time to time and smile with such a tacit understanding.

In short, within ten minutes, the whole company knew that Nicole was in an extraordinarily good mood today.

It might be related to the situation reversal.

Nicole was not bothered to go to Jacob’s smokey office and went over to the meeting room that was quiet and spacious next door.

Clayton followed behind her. The two of them looked so sweet and intimate.

Logan went in and acted as a third wheel.

“President, Autumn Ferguson called just now and wanted to ask you to have dinner together.”

Nicole paused and glanced at Clayton.

When Clayton heard this name, the smile on his face instantly disappeared.

Instead, he looked impatient and speechless.

Clayton regarded this as a scourge.

Nicole laughed. ”I don’t have time for her.”

Autumn was taking the initiative perhaps because she was afraid that Nicole would find out something.

Logan answered and turned to leave.

Nicole reached out and pulled Clayton’s hand. ”Why are you suddenly so upset? I’m not going to meet with her.”

Clayton pondered for a moment.

“I don’t know what this crazy woman is capable of or what kind of heartless things she’ll do to you. You’d better not meet with her!”

Nicole nodded in a very receptive manner.

The feeling of being loved unconditionally was somewhat intoxicating.

Although Clayton was in the bedroom when Nicole and Logan were speaking, they did not deliberately suppress their voices, so he could still hear them clearly.

Nicole laughed and looked at Clayton with her head tilted and her eyebrows arched.

”Your admirer set this trap for me to get you. Isn’t it unexpected?”

Clayton’s face instantly stiffened. His expression sank. ”Who?”

Nicole raised her eyebrows. ”Your admirer!” ”Give me a name!”

His tone sank slightly.

Clayton thought, ’What kind of admirer could I have?’

After coming to Mediania, the only woman Clayton had come into contact with was only Nicole.

”Autumn Ferguson!”

When Nicole said this name, Clayton’s face instantly turned gloomy and cold.

It was rare to see Clayton look so serious. When Clayton entered the door earlier, he was warm and glowing.

”What, you don’t have an impression of her?”

Clayton did not want to lie. “I do, but I’m not familiar with her. Is this woman sick in the head?”

He was such a good-tempered person, yet he could not help but curse Autumn.

Nicole was stunned for a moment and could not help but laugh.

Clayton saw that Nicole was not angry and was laughing happily instead.

His face sank in disbelief.

“What are you laughing at? This woman is sick in the head, but I didn’t expect her to be so crazy! How about this, I’ll handle this matter.” 1

Saying that, Clayton took out his phone.

Nicole hurriedly grabbed it and said with a smile.

“You wanna solve it? How are you going to solve it?”

“I want her to give up on that delusional thought. In the meantime, I’ll scold her for you to vent your anger!”

Nicole laughed helplessly and thought, ’Is he trying to vent my anger or his anger? Why does he look even angrier than I am?’

Clayton instantly regretted having come over. “Mr. Sloan, a scolding won’t solve the problem.”

Nicole took his hand and fumbled with it for a moment. She looked at him and smiled helplessly.

Clayton hesitated for a few seconds. ”Then what should we do? Do you wanna beat her up? It’s not impossible, but we can’t do it ourselves. We gotta find a few mobsters for this Nicole listened to the more he said and felt like it was getting out of hand, so she quickly interrupted his thinking.

“Stop! Who said I wanted to beat her up? I’ll solve it. We’re civilized people, so we can’t be too barbaric.”

Clayton was speechless.

The more he thought about it, the angrier he was. “How are you going to solve it?”

Nicole looked at him playfully. “What if I really sold you to her?”

Clayton’s body stiffened slightly. His expression was complicated as he looked at her.

’This woman’s thoughts are really too dangerous!’ Clayton though.

He remained silent and refused to answer her question.

Nicole was relentless. “Tell me! If I really exchanged you for their resources, would you blame me?”

She knew full well that she was being unreasonable, but she suddenly wanted to know Clayton’s answer.

A few seconds later.

Clayton’s eyes slowly fell on Nicole’s face.

His thin lips parted slightly, and his voice was clear, crisp, and light. “No.”

Nicole raised her eyebrows and was a little surprised. ’He really won’t blame me? If we swapped places and Clayton sold me off, I would’ve gone crazy!’

Clayton reached out. His hand slowly landed on Nicole’s hair as he tenderly stroked it like she was a precious treasure. “How can I bear to blame you?

No matter who you sell me to, I’ll run back to you on my own,”

His voice was so pure and clear, like a spring breeze in her ear. He was so frank and pious.

Nicole’s beating heart suddenly felt like it was clenched hard.

This answer was like Clayton’s love for her, rich and sudden.

The two of them looked at each other.

Nicole felt his affection and the sudden proximity of his soul.

She was only dating him, but he was loving her whoIe heartedIy.

This was the difference between them.

Nicole suddenly felt that the feelings she reciprocated were not enough, like she was unworthy of him.

Nicole hooked her lips.

”Worried about me? In what way? Do you really think I’ll hide a man here?”

Clayton laughed. “I’m worried that you’ll be fighting alone. I somehow feel that this problem with the Sand City project is a trap.”

He developed a keen intuition after so many years of experience.

Just like how he knew that Isaac Sloan wanted to make a move on him before Isaac did anything.

Nicole’s smile faded. She lowered her eyes without speaking.

Clayton looked at her eyebrows. Although she had a good appetite, the darkness in her eyes could not be concealed.

These days, Nicole must have had a bad time. Clayton spoke in a deep and gentle voice. ’You’ve made progress?”

Nicole paused for a moment. She looked at him with a deep gaze and a playful smile.

”Yeah, and it’s even related to you…”

Clayton froze for a moment and wrinkled his brows. He waited for her explanation.

However, before she could say anything, there was a knock on the door.

“President, it’s me.”

It was Logan’s voice.

Nicole smiled, stood up, and went to open the door.

Logan came in with a stack of information. When he saw that Clayton was also there, he froze for a moment and nodded politely.

“Mr. Sloan.”

Clayton responded with a smile. “Logan, you’ve worked hard.”

Logan did not exchange pleasantries and handed over the materials in his hand to Nicole.

“These are the things you asked me to check yesterday.”

Nicole took the kraft paper envelope and did not open it. Instead, she casually threw it on the table next to her.

“Just tell me straight.”

She did not want to read those dense words. It was too cumbersome.

Logan looked at Clayton and was somewhat hesitant. He stammered and did not know where to start.

Clayton stood up at this moment and straightened his clothes. “Do you mind if I visit your room?”

Nicole shrugged. Of course, she had no problems with that.

After all, they were dating, and Clayton liked to play the role of the househusband.

Once Clayton entered the room, Logan did not feel so much pressure anymore and looked at Nicole. He spoke very fast.

“President, as soon as Autumn Ferguson returned to Mediania, she started to intern at Thousand Nights, a small

company that Ferguson Corporation has some shares in. It seems like Ferguson Corporation intends to acquire this company. Autumn was hired through proper procedures and job applications, but she didn’t hide her relationship with the Ferguson family, so that company’s staff is aware of Autumn’s special status.

Now, the boss of that company is in an awkward situation because it looks as if he calls the shots, but in fact, he looks at Autumn’s mood to do things. Your guess is right. That reporter is likely to be hidden by this company. That’s because when I checked the reporter’s receipts before he disappeared, he was in the cafe next to that office.”

Nicole listened in silence, with a cold smile hanging at the corners of her lips.

Logan paused and could not help but ask her.

“How do you know that Autumn Ferguson is suspicious?”

Nicole curved her lips and could not help but laugh out loud. She looked in the direction of her bedroom.

“Because… She was so eager to make a deal with me that she actually showed her cards to me unprepared, trying to get me to follow her plan. That’s how I saw through her.”

Otherwise, how could Nicole find a lead so quickly?

Logan was puzzled. “Make a deal with you? What are her conditions?”

Nicole lifted her chin and pointed in the direction of the bedroom.

“Sell him to her.” Logan was speechless.

Nicole laughed. The person in the bedroom felt like they were talking about him, so he walked out.

Clayton took off his jacket and walked over with a slight frown, not taking the initiative to speak.

Logan said, “Then I’ll go and get the car ready?” Nicole nodded.

As soon as Logan left, Clayton could not ho Id back and asked Nicole.

“Sell who to whom?”

Old Master Leonard saw that Autumn was relentless and ran out of patience. He bluntly ordered her.

“Forget it, you won’t understand. Get that reporter to turn himself in tomorrow and give him more money to shut his mouth and don’t implicate you. This matter will be settled then.”

Autumn’s lips trembled slightly. She did not know how to persist and felt helpless.

She clenched her fist, took a deep breath, and could only bow her head and compromise. “Yes, Grandpa. I’ll fix it tomorrow.”

Seeing that Autumn was still obedient, Old Master Leonard softened his expression and smiled.

“When this matter is over, I’ll tell Eric to let you work at Ferguson Corporation. What can you learn from always being in a small company anyway?”

Autumn smiled miserably. “Okay, I’ll listen to you, Grandpa.”

The next day.

Nicole got up early in the morning to watch the news.

Those homeowners did not protest, which meant that the statement was the right response and was effective.

Thus, she had an extraordinarily great appetite in the morning.

Hearing someone knocking on the door, Nicole thought that it was Logan looking for her.

She opened the door with a sandwich in her mouth, and she did not even have time to brush her hair.

As a result, once she opened the door, the person standing at the door was not Logan.

Nicole froze for a moment. The person outside the door smiled at her. His modest and gentle temperament instantly soothed the anxiety she had been feeling for the past few days.

Clayton was wearing a gray sweatsuit and looked like an elite trust fund kid. His outstanding temperament was noble, and he looked a little frivolous.

He stood outside with a smile on his handsome face and his hands in his pockets. “Good morning, Ms. Stanton.”

Nicole was stunned for a moment. She instantly took the sandwich out of her mouth and swallowed it in a few bites.

“W-Why are you here?”

He did not even tell her that he was coming.

Clayton smiled and lowered his head to look at her. The contours of the man’s face looked like it had been outlined. It was perfectly smooth, and he looked so gentle.

“I haven’t seen you for a few days, and I really miss you. I missed you so much that I can’t sleep. So, I came here…”

Nicole was speechless and thought, ’Did he take the wrong meds?’

Clayton reached out, flexed his fingers, and gently flicked her forehead. Nicole instantly snapped back to her senses.

The man smiled warmly.

“Quick, let me in to check if you took advantage of my absence to hide another man in here.”

Nicole opened her mouth and moved to the side. She wanted to say something but held it back. ’The first thing he thought of is if I hid a man here?! I don’t have the time and mood for that…’

Clayton went in and saw a table of sumptuous breakfast. He raised his eyebrows and laughed helplessly.

He did not go around to search for intruders. Instead, he sat at the table and looked at her.

“I haven’t eaten breakfast yet. Can I have some?”

Nicole quickly walked over, poured him a glass of milk, and frowned at him.

“Why haven’t you had breakfast?”

Clayton’s movements were elegant as he took a sip of milk and smiled at her.

“I’ve just told you the reason, but you’re asking again. Do you want to hear it another time?”

Nicole choked and closed her mouth. ’Is it a man’s nature to tease people?’

The tips of her ears were slightly red as she watched Clayton eat slowly. He was not in a hurry.

It looked as if he came all the way here just to accompany her for breakfast.

Thinking of this, Nicole felt like her heart was enveloped in sunshine, which made her feel warm and relaxed.

Clayton saw that she was silent and looked at her. After he had his share of food, he slowly wiped his hands.

He spoke in a light voice, “I came because I really miss you, but I’m also a little worried for you.”

Autumn took a deep breath. After a long time, her nerves slowly calmed down.

She stood up and went straight to the Leonards’ residence.

Old Master Leonard looked like he had been waiting for Autumn for a long time.

He frowned at her.

“I couldn’t contact you and thought you disappeared!”

Autumn smiled and resumed her usual well-behaved and understanding appearance.

“Why would I? Of course, I’ll come back to pay my respects to you, Grandpa!”

Old Master Leonard’s face was a little heavy. “This is beyond our expectation. Nicole didn’t come back a second time to beg me. Instead, she issued a statement asking for an inspection.”

At that moment, Old Master Leonard was a little nervous.

Autumn said, “So what if it’s an inspection? Anyway, the project will be delayed, and they’ll pay for the losses. No matter what the result of the inspection is, Stanton Corporation’s project will surely lose money.”

Old Master Leonard glared at Autumn.

“Do you think I want to get into trouble with Stanton Corporation? Floyd Stanton is not easy to deal with. Back then, I wanted to expand my power to Atlanta, but with Floyd Stanton around, Atlanta is like a brick wall, and now, he has forced me to Sand City. If he finds out that I made things difficult for his daughter, it won’t do us any good to have a fallout with them!”

Autumn looked at Old Master Leonard, who rarely got mad at her.

She pursed her lips, and her heart unconsciously became even more jealous of Nicole.

This was the first time Autumn had heard of someone who could make Old Master Leonard feel a sense of crisis.

“Grandpa, don’t worry. Worse comes to worst, you can take the initiative to step in and appease Nicole in a couple of days by letting the inspection pass quickly. She’ll have to be grateful to you as usual.”

Old Master Leonard stared at Autumn for a few seconds and spoke in a gruff tone.

“In a couple of days? Now, Stanton Corporation has issued a statement. After a couple of days, do you think that I can still intervene?”

Autumn’s face stiffened.

“You want to give in now?”

Old Master Leonard pursed his lips and took a deep breath.

“Autumn, I don’t remember that you and Nicole have any deep hatred, so why make such a fuss and cause both sides to lose so much? Before the authorities move in on the project team, get that reporter to take the blame and solve this matter. Their project can continue and both

sides will be able to maintain our relationship. If this goes on, I’m afraid that Floyd Stanton will come to me to settle accounts!”

Old Master Leonard was anxious, especially after seeing that statement from Nicole.

He thought their trouble would drag on for a few more days, so he was happy to see a good show, but now, Nicole had no intention to go to him for help.

Old Master Leonard was unable to sit still.

Although he has a wide network in various places and could have a say in certain things because of his good relationship with people, this was all based on the premise that his position in Sand City was solid.

Old Master Leonard knew the extent of Stanton Corporation’s power, which was not something he could challenge.

If Floyd Stanton stepped in, those people would just need to take a look at Floyd’s power and Old Master Leonard’s empty shell to see the situation clearly.

Autumn’s expression changed a few times. She suffered a blow from Nicole earlier and did not expect to come back to hear that Old Master Leonard wanted to compromise.

Autumn was tense as she made a desperate attempt to hold her emotions back.

“Grandpa, we have nothing to do with Stanton Corporation. Just because we don’t help, will Floyd Stanton come to trouble us? What right does he have to do that? Helping her is our kindness. Not helping is also our right, so what are you afraid of?”

Autumn did not understand.

Nicole had no evidence of Autumn’s involvement in this. Thus, it would be unreasonable for Floyd Stanton to find trouble with them.

Old Master Leonard looked at Autumn with a stern face.

“Autumn, turning a deaf ear and a blind eye to something is a big taboo in the business world. Do you think that Floyd Stanton is a fool?”

Autumn’s face was glum as she clenched her teeth. She was not convinced.

It was such a good plan, but they had to ad mit defeat just like that?

Then, all her efforts would just be in vain.

Nicole suddenly laughed and stared at Autumn meaningfully.

“Ms. Ferguson, in that case, are you going to help me? As long as I beg you, will you help me?”

Autumn froze for a moment, not expecting Nicole’s attitude to change so quickly.

She paused for a few seconds and lifted her chin.

“Of course, it’s not that simple. I want you to promise me one condition!”

Nicole raised her eyebrows. “Leave Clayton?” All of a sudden.

The sound of the music in the bar seemed to stand still. The noisy drums passed by Autumn’s ears, making her heart tremble.

Autumn felt like her heart missed a beat.

Unexpectedly, Nicole said everything that Autumn was supposed to say, all at once.

The corners of Nicole’s lips held a faint smile as if she was smugly mocking the dirtiness in Autumn’s heart.

Nicole had seen through by Autumn.

For a moment, Autumn felt like she was stripped naked in full view of the public.

Obviously, Autumn was the one who controlled the situation before, but now, Nicole was in control.

Autumn looked at Nicole stiffly. Autumn’s voice was cold as she said, “For you, it’s just a change of person. It

shouldn’t be difficult, right?”

She braced herself and still said what was in her heart.

“People like you are surrounded by an end less stream of men. You think that you were once hurt in a relationship, so the whole world has to revolve around you. Not to mention the young hunks in showbiz you’ve appeared around, even Eric fell for you. Are you so proud of this? Does a person like you even deserve Clayton?

He isn’t someone you can play around with. I advise you to find someone else!”

Nicole heard the tension in Autumn’s tone and could not help but laugh.

She wondered what Clayton’s expression would be if he heard these words.

Would Clayton persuade Nicole to leave him?

Nicole laughed lightly. Her voice was indifferent and nonchalant. “Ms. Ferguson, I hope you understand that Clayton was the one who clung to me first, so I agreed to date him. If I’m not worthy of Clayton, are you worthy?”

Nicole’s eyes wandered around as she scrutinized Autumn, who was just mediocre in appearance and less than 1.6 meters tall.

Nicole wondered where Autumn got the confidence to say these words.

She felt that even if they were to compete based on their face, she could beat Autumn in seconds!

Nicole’s gaze was more lethal than her words.

She shattered Autumn’s self-esteem slowly. Autumn’s face slowly turned white.

Nicole even began to pity her.

She also felt bored since Autumn was so easily defeated.

Nicole turned around and was about to leave.

Suddenly, she thought of something and looked back at Autumn.

“Ms. Ferguson, you reminded me. You wanted to be involved in this incident so much. Do you have a connection with the mastermind behind this matter?”

Nicole was straightforward.

Suddenly, the blood drained from Autumn’s face. Autumn’s gaze fiercely shook.

Nicole caught this second of tension on Autumn’s face.

She smiled and did not wait for an answer, then just turned around and left.

Autumn was also considered a member of the Ferguson family.

Nicole thought about it and suddenly had a lead.

As soon as Nicole went out, she called Logan. “Go find out which company Autumn works for.”

Looking at Nicole’s back, Autumn suddenly felt weak in the legs. She could not stand anymore and fell on the sofa next to her.

Autumn did not understand why the moment when Nicole questioned her, she did not even have the strength to lie.

It was as if Nicole’s eyes could see through all her innermost thoughts.

A burst of cold fear slowly rose from the back.

’No, I can’t let Nicole know about this.’ Autumn thought. She gritted her teeth, took out her phone, found a number,

and dialed it.

“Hide that reporter and don’t show your face.”

As long as Nicole could not find the reporter, she would not have any evidence that linked Autumn to this matter.

Then, Autumn would be able to retreat unscathed.

Nicole had not strolled around the streets here, so she was just walking around aimlessly.

Unknowingly, she walked to the end of a street.

She was a little lost and looked around, seemingly a little confused. When she raised her eyes, she saw a bar.

After thinking about it, Nicole walked in.

The music inside was deafening, but there was not much of a crowd. Nicole swept a glance, then walked to the

private area and went to a booth.

She was a little tired and wanted to relax.

However, not long after, someone stood in front of her and blocked the light.

Nicole frowned, raised her head, and saw a few people in front of her.

Autumn was one of them. Behind her were a few frail- looking men with outstanding looks and figures. Their strong perfume made Nicole feel unpleasant.

Nicole suppressed her heart’s doubt and acted calmly. “What a coincidence, Ms. Ferguson.”

Autumn smiled and raised an eyebrow. “Ms. Stanton, we’re Really fated to meet. Why are you alone? You don’t mind if we all sit together and have some fun, right?”

Nicole’s facial features were picturesque, and her smile was playful.

“If I mind, will you leave with your friends?”

Autumn’s expression stiffened, so much so that she could barely hold her smile.

She curled the corners of her lips.

“Ms. Stanton, this isn’t Atlanta, and you don’t own this bar, so you don’t call the shots here.”

Nicole lowered her eyes in disgust, picked up the bag next to her, and stood up.

“Fine, then suit yourself. I’m leaving.”

Nicole was not in the mood to argue with this woman.

Suddenly, Nicole felt that all Ferguson women were very annoying, whether it was Ingrid or Autumn.

Before Nicole could take two steps out, Autumn said in a cool tone.

“I’ve been waiting for you to beg me, but I didn’t expect that you’d rather stop the construction and do the inspection than ask the Leonard family for help.”

Nicole paused in her steps. Her smile instantly disappeared as she did not even bother to maintain perfunctory politeness.

She turned her head slightly to look at Autumn with an indifferent gaze.

“Beg you? Why should I?”

“Ms. Stanton, don’t you think that you’ve offended me from the very beginning?”

Autumn’s tone was very aggressive with the arrogance of a spoiled rich lady.

Autumn was different from that brainless Ingrid Ferguson. I f Ingrid did not have her brother Eric, how could she have gotten into the elite circle with her skills?

However, Autumn got to where she was today with her intelligence, high education, and high ICI.

The only one who could compete with Nicole was Autumn.

Now, the high society ladies in the circle were putting Nicole on a pedestal. They envied and admired Nicole as if her existence was what they aspire to be.

In Autumn’s opinion, Nicole was just relying on her family’s backing to show her power.

Besides that, what else did Nicole have?

Nicole looked back at Autumn. She tilted her head to size Autumn up with a cold gaze. “Offend you? I’ve offended a lot of people, so who the hell are you to me?”

Since Autumn was not willing to maintain a superficial harmony, they could just go all out.

Anyway, Nicole was not bothered to deal with a woman like Autumn.

Autumn froze for a moment and let out a laugh.

“How long do you think you can be tough? The quality inspection will last at least half a year or even two or three years. Does Stanton Corporation not want this project anymore?”

If Nicole went to the Leonard family to beg for mercy and put away her condescending attitude, Autumn might be soft -hearted to let Nicole go.

When Nicole heard these words, she suddenly turned around and approached Autumn.

Autumn subconsciously took a step back.

She looked at Nicole’s cold exquisite features that were looking at her haughtily and suddenly felt like her heart was twisted.

When Nicole finished speaking, the office was silent. Logan’s gaze went from shock to amazement.

He suddenly realized that this was not a bad thing. It would even cause a new wave of rising sales.

Even Jacob was a bit dumbfounded.

Nicole’s method seemed to be beyond imagination.

Jacob could not help but stand up and spoke with an excited expression.

“This way, those bribed owners will definitely not act rashly. No matter how much benefit the mastermind

behind this offers them, they can’t give everyone a house, right?”

Logan widened his eyes.

“That’s right. This buy and sell is not at all beneficial to those who want to take advantage of the opportunity to cause trouble. Others won’t risk selling the house they have. When the quality inspection results come out, those who have sold the house will definitely regret it. Not only that, by then we’ll also increase the price. No one is willing to spend more money to subsidize the difference, which means that tomorrow, those owners won’t gather to cause trouble!”

Jacob suddenly laughed. “Yes, and this shows our attitude. We’re not guilty of anything!”

Nicole calmly raised her eyebrows. She lifted her head to look at them.

“So, why are you still here?”

Logan and Jacob froze. They looked at each other and ran out excitedly.

Nicole only gave them a general direction. They still need to negotiate with the PR department regarding the specific content and measures.

However, it was clear that Nicole wanted to counterattack. The whole company basically was very alert.

The initial panic disappeared. Nicole’s arrival was reassuring. As long as she was there, Stanton Corporation would not give up the Sand City project.

They would not lose their jobs either.

The public relations department’s statement was sent out at 5:00 pm sharp.

This was the first time Stanton Corporation went against this rumor, so naturally, it got a lot of attention.

Soon, it caused a considerable ripple on the internet.

[My God! This is amazing! They have such confidence and didn’t even bother with any nonsense in their statement. I knew that there’d be a reversal in this, and it finally came!]

[So, Stanton Corporation was framed?]

[Those owners who can’t trust them can just return the house. This is a good opportunity and the first that’s ever happened!]

[Quality inspection lasts at least six months. Even if Stanton Corporation loses money, they’re willing to prove their innocence. I don’t know why, but this time, I stand with Stanton Corporation!]

[I second this!

Those poor-quality building materials have long been prohibited from flowing into the market. Why would such a large enterprise like Stanton Corporation smash their own reputation?]

[These are just ignorant migrant workers’ drunken talk, so the reporter said such rumors.]

[Stanton Corporation surprisingly doesn’t plan to hold the migrant workers responsible and just wants to find out the mastermind behind this?]

Nicole always paid attention to the public opinion trend on the internet.

This statement was posted less than half an hour ago, but it was already the number one trending topic.

The comments were also less abusive with fewer complaints. They were all more rational.

This was the result Nicole wanted.

Nicole sat on the sofa in front of the floor-to-ceiling window looking out at the sunset. The afterglow painted the sky a beautiful color that was intoxicating.

She could not help but be a little lost in thought.

Soon, Nicole picked up her bag and phone, stood up, and walked out.

Logan looked at her as he carried some documents. “President, where are you going?”

“I’m going out for a walk.”

Logan asked, “Shall I accompany you?”

Nicole did not even look back and said, “No, I’ll get Luca to follow me.”

Logan paused in his steps and watched as Nicole went into the elevator.

Getting Luca to follow her meant that she wanted to walk alone. That was because Luca simply did not have to show himself at certain times.

Nicole raised her eyes and seemed a little surprised, but she quickly recovered her expression.

“Mr. Cook, it isn’t easy to sit in your position. Even if someone sits in it, they may not be able to sit firmly. These things didn’t happen because of your incompetence, but you’re just unlucky.

Don’t think of running away. Think about how to solve this!”

Jacob’s eyes suddenly felt warm. A big man like him almost cried from the few words this lady said.

Her attitude compared to yesterday was a lot nicer.

Jacob thought that Nicole would blame him. Nicole’s attitude represented the entire Stanton Corporation.

Rather than getting fired after this matter, Jacob thought that it was better to take the initiative himself. At least then, he could still have some decency.

With the matter escalating to this point, Jacob was just shy from a mental breakdown.

However, Nicole’s attitude was surprisingly completely different from what he imagined it to be.

Although Nicole did not say any comforting words, she understood that this was not easy for Jacob.

She did not show any intention of holding him accountable either.

At once, Jacob’s expression changed a few times as he stood there.

“I’ve brought such a great loss to the company. I’m afraid that everyone…”

Nicole lifted her eyelids and said in an indifferent tone, ” The loss can be earned back again. Everyone will understand, considering the current situation in Sand City. I can ignore the few shareholders’ opinions because they’re fundamentally useless in this matter, especially compared to you, Mr. Cook.”

Jacob looked at Nicole for a long time. The corners of his lips twitched slightly as he desperately suppressed his emotions.

She said it very frankly. Even if the shareholders in the company had an opinion, so what?

Nicole had the final say.

There was no use even if they had an opinion.

Jacob gritted his teeth and looked at her firmly. “Ms. Stanton, don’t worry. As long as the company still needs me, I’ll go all out to follow through with this project.”

Nicole nodded and looked at Logan. “Two cups of coffee please.”

Logan nodded and turned around to go out. He then came back with two cups of coffee.

Jacob hurriedly stood up and took his own cup. Logan was considered senior management in the company, so Jacob could not enjoy his service so freely.

Nicole lowered her head and silently sipped the coffee while looking at the iPad in her hand. She was scrolling through the webpage.

This matter had been ongoing for a few days.

Although the public relations team arrived in Sand City, Nicole did not authorize any action.

It was not the best time for PR to make a statement. Before the afternoon.

Logan hurriedly went over. “Ms. Stanton, the owners of the first phase of the project are all gathered together and ready to protest.”

Nicole looked up.

“When?”

“From what I heard, they intend to start tomorrow.”

Nicole was silent for a few seconds. Her face gradually went cold.

At that moment, she stopped waiting.

She originally wanted to wait for the reporter to come forward himself, but the matter at hand seemed to be more urgent.

“Have the public relations department get ready to release a statement by 5:00 pm today. To reassure the homeowners, we will voluntarily stop work and accept quality inspection by the relevant authorities. We will also randomly select the Phase 1 owners as witnesses. In

addition, during this period, if any owners want to return the house they have purchased, we will refund the full amount.”

Logan looked up at her in shock.

“President, this is something that never happened before in the industry.”

Once they refunded the owners, the house would become a second-hand house and would be worthless.

If they set this precedent, everyone who bought a house would want to return it, and the people who bought the house that was refunded would also be discontented. Jacob also looked shocked.

Nicole raised her eyebrows and smiled.

“Don’t worry. Make sure it’s clearly written that once the house is returned, the same owner will not be able to buy any property under Stanton Corporation again. Also, we’ll give a 5% discount to those who want to buy the refunded house, but this is only limited to the quality inspection period. Once the quality inspection is over, the refund scheme will end.”

Early in the morning.

Logan came over and knocked on the door. When Nicole opened her eyes, it was already past 10:00 am.

Nicole instantly sat up and felt a little guilty.

At once, a sense of guilt and shame arose in her heart.

’How could I still sleep so soundly?’ Nicole thought.

She hurriedIy got dressed and went to open the door, then went to wash up.

Logan got the staff to bring in a table of sumptuous breakfast with some local specialties.

Nicole saw the enticing food, but she had little appetite.

She looked at Logan. “Is there any news about that reporter?”

Logan nodded. “Although we haven’t found him yet, we found his hometown.”

Once Nicole heard that, she felt energized. “Then what?”

Logan said, “I checked his and his family’s bank accounts. There’s nothing unusual in the reporter’s own account, but a few days ago, his mother’s account received three million dollars from an overseas account. The other party transferred the money and canceled the account, so we can’t find the source.”

Nicole fell silent. Her face was a little cold.

Sure enough, the reporter was incited by someone.

Then, this was not an accident. Rather, it was deliberate.

“I asked his mother, who’s an ordinary housewife and has no idea what her son did. She also doesn’t know of this money’s existence. But I’ve asked someone to keep watch around his house. Once that reporter appears, we’ll be the first to know.”

Nicole nodded and ate in silence with her head down.

Logan continued, “The internet is still in an uproar. I’ve contacted the platform to block certain keywords, but I didn’t dare to delete the post as I’m afraid that it’ll backfire.”

Nicole looked up. “Don’t delete it. You did a good job. Before the other party makes a move, don’t waste our efforts on useless things.”

Logan said, “I inquired with Mr. Lewis. He felt that the best way to handle this matter is to let the relevant departments speak for us. After all, the credibility of government departments will be far better than our own explanation.”

Nicole sneered. She put down the glass of milk and took a tissue to wipe her hands gently.

“They’re also looking at the direction of public opinion. They won’t take a side so easily.”

“Why don’t we ask Chairman Stanton to contact Old Master Leonard?” Logan suggested.

Even if Old Master Leonard disregarded Nicole, he would not ignore Floyd and would show him some respect.

Nicole raised her cold eyes.

“No, there’s no need to contact the Leonard family. This isn’t something that can be solved by saying a few nice words.”

Logan paused. He had been around Nicole for so long, so he could feel Nicole’s emotional fluctuations when the Leonard family was mentioned.

After breakfast, Logan had someone clear the table. Nicole got dressed and came out.

She was wearing a white Chanel suit and looked so stunning with her cool temperament.

”Let’s go to the office.”

Logan nodded and immediately followed.

Jacob had been unable to sleep for several days.

Even when Nicole came over, Jacob dared not relax for a moment.

He looked like he was living at the office.

As soon as Jacob saw Nicole enter the office, he immediately extinguished his cigarette and jumped up from the chair.

“P-President!”

Nicole looked at the smoke in the office and frowned slightly.

She then looked at the cigarette butts strewn all over the ground and was stunned. She opened her mouth but did not say anything.

Jacob looked like he could not sleep for several days.

Nicole nodded and sat down on the sofa in front of the floor-to-ceiling window.

Logan shot Jacob a look and hurriedIy went to the side to open the window to let some fresh air in.

Jacob carefully walked over and rubbed his face.

“Ms. Stanton, I’m really incompetent… When this matter is settled, I’ll submit my resignation to the company.”

Jacob was really too ashamed to stay.