My Wife is a Hacker novel (Nicole)

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...