Chapter 24
just as Nicole finished speaking, the police anived. The moment they saw the woman, their expressions hardened.
“It’s you again? How long do you plan to keep stining up trouble?
“The hospital already compensated you, and your mother signed the settlement. How many times are you going to disrupt public order before you’re satisfied?”
The police then turned to Nicole, noticing her paint stained clothes.
“Miss, don’t worry. We’ll deal with the offender seriously,” he stated.
At that moment, Heidi stepped forward. She had heard everything Nicole said just now. While she admired her daughter’s compassion, she couldn’t stand by and watch her be taken advantage of
Heidi was worried that Nicole might go soft and let the woman off. Someone like that unhinged and reckless–could hurt other doctors
octors were unethical, and Heidi refused to let someone so emotionally unstable roam freely, posing a threat to others.
“Nicole,” she said, “I know you want to give her another chance. But if she can throw paint at you today, she might do something far more dangerous the next time.
Understanding Heidi’s intention, Nicole met her eyes with a steady look
“Don’t worry, Mom. I was never planning to let it go.
Heidi looked at her in surprise
Nicole continued, “I get why she’s angry. I want to help because I feel sorry for her father’s death. But that doesn’t give her the right to lash out at me just because of what she read online.
“She crossed the line, and she needs to be held responsible for that.”
Heidi hadn’t expected such clarity and strength from Nicole. In that moment, admiration and satisfaction filled her gaze as she looked at Nicole.
A soft smile tugged at her lips as she uttered, “How did I get such an incredible daughter? Nicole, you’ve really grown into someone amazing ”
Nicole simply smiled in response
Later, Heidi led Nicole to get cleaned up and took her out shopping. They returned with armfuls of new clothes, and only then did Heidi feel somewhat at ease When they returned to the Boyd residence, Nicole was dressed in designer pieces from head to toe, complete with a fresh makeover. Her style was understated, subtly accentuating her features and adding to her already refined, cool elegance.
Inside the house, Monica was eating alone at the dining table. She used to share every meal with Heidi, but lately, her mother was nowhere in sight.
Laughter drifted in from the hallway, catching Monica’s attention. Her eyes instinctively shifted toward the sound, and she caught sight of Nicole walking in, adomed in high–end clothes, accessories, and a designer handbag
The outfit alone had to cost tens of thousands of dollars. And behind her, the bodyguards were carrying shopping bags.
Monica’s fingers tightened around her spoon, a wave of frustration swelling inside her.
It had been ages since Heidi had taken her shopping, and now she had secretly spoiled Nicole with all of this.
Still, Held had promised that they would both be treated the same.
Monica swallowed her anger, rose t
to her feet, and strolled over, linking arms with Held and flashing a well–rehearsed smile.
“Mom,” she said sweetly, “you went shopping without me? You usually take me along. Is it because Nicole’s back and you don’t want
to hang out with me
“And Is there anything in there for me?o
