r reducing herself to a bargaining chip in a financial deal,

im, determined not to be indebted to her in any way.

th a check worth five million dollars. "Ms. Perry, this represents the fi

left her momentarily stunned. She tucked the check away securely and, as she prepared to depart, offered Co

wheelchair, walking steadily to the window where he ob

, "Mr. Reed, five million is life-changing fo

lear answer, his ex

.

nce, the atmosphere buzz

n, turned to Erika with a wide grin. "Darling, you can finally breathe easy. This windfall will fund Jerald's new venture, securing his devotion to you com

"Has the payment from th

. The Reed family honors the

rs, she had lived in Nicole's shadow, perpetuall

everything, Erika relished

ther was literally driven to death by sheer anger." Erika smirked cruelly.

once. "Who gave you permiss

voice sugary. "Why the worry? I neve

eless about the truth, but she had kn

ed open the door and stepped

ame-unassuming attire, guileless demeanor-but an icy resolve now

her contempt. "And why exactly

To deliver the funds provided by the Reed famil

face. Had the money been placed

saw no issue and remarked impatiently, "Then why are y

across from Phillip. "Uncle Phillip, you gave your word to arr

ttitude and was about to lash out,

's being arranged. Rest assured, I w

attends the memorial ceremony. It will allow

e could object, Nicole continued evenly, "Connor commit

ed his features into calm neutral

perly laid to rest." Nicole then turned her attention to Erika. "I know you and Jerald

mething about Nicole had shifted profoundly since her mo

aze sent chills do

What do you mean by 'letting' us u

Reed family yourselves for the remaining balance. As for the modest share currently in my p