Chapter 8
Two days later was Edward’s birthday banquet.
Jennifer was forced to attend by Alexander.
The celebration was held at a private hotel in the southern district, arranged by Alexander himself.
To bolster Nicole’s standing, Alexander booked the entire floor to set the record straight.
Jennifer stood in the corner, watching Edward hover around Alexander, her gaze gradually dimming.
Guests streamed past her throughout the evening, each casting disdainful glances her way.
“Isn’t it obvious who truly runs the Smith Family now?”
“Seems Miss Harris is the real Mrs. Smith? Wonder what dirty tricks she used to cling to Mr. Smith all these years.”
Jennifer listened silently, her eyes flickering but showing no other
reaction.
She felt numb to the pain now.
As she turned toward the elevator, Nicole followed close behind.
Applying lipstick, Nicole shot her a sidelong glance. “Your agreement. takes effect in two days. You’ll leave, right?”
Jennifer pressed the lobby button. “Mhm.”
Nicole smiled with satisfaction. “I trust you’ll honor the arrangement.”
Jennifer averted her eyes.
Suddenly–THUD!
The elevator jolted violently.
Nicole was trapped inside, pounding frantically on the doors to no avail.
Another deafening crash sent the elevator plunging downward.
“Ah!” Nicole screamed from within..
Jennifer fumbled for her phone. “Alexander! Come quick! The elevator malfunctioned! Nicole’s trapped!”
She banged on the metal doors, hoping for any response from Nicole.
Alexander sprinted over, footsteps frantic and uneven.
“What happened?”
Before fully stopping, he shouted Nicole’s name between gasps for air.
Rescue workers arrived after an agonizing wait, calling through the doors. “Are you hurt? Can you respond?”
“Help me!” Nicole clawed at the doors, voice raw. “My foot’s stuck!”
Screeching metal echoed as light pierced the darkness.
In her dazed state, Jennifer saw only Alexander kneeling anxiously, checking Nicole’s injuries.
