Chapter 48  Dad grabbed her walking stick, trying to calm the storm brewing. “Mom, Nicole’s intentions were good. Don’t take it out on her  Grandma stared at Dad, eyes wide with disbelief, “Have you lost your senses? I suspect Nicole’s got something to do with Amanda’s disappearance, and here you are, still defending her. Is Nicole’s life worth more than Amanda’s?”  Tears streamed down Nicole’s face as she shook her head desperately. “Grandma, I was too sick to make it to my sister’s wedding. I never even saw her that day, let alone know where she went.”  “Exactly, Grandma, someone chimed in. “Nicole’s always been gentle and kind. If she had any clue about where Amanda was, she’d have told us straight away. There’s nothing in it for her to keep it a secret.”  “Mom, I get that you’re worried about Amanda, but you can’t just lash out at Nicole. Her health’s already fragile.”  While the entire Kennedy family stood by Nicole’s side, Chase moved towards her, his demeanor icy and distant.  Hacole was kneeling, and Chase towered over her. His usual warmth was nowhere to be found, replaced by a chill that cut to the bone.  Had Chase finally seen Nicole for who she truly was?  In a voice as cold as winter, I heard him say, “Nicole, have you been lying to me? I need the truth.”  Nicole met his steely gaze, biting her lip softly, “Chase, I’m telling the truth. I haven’t lied”  “Nicole, we’ve known each other for years. I hope you’re being honest with me. Do you understand?”  Nicole shook her head. “I can swear to God, Chase. If I had anything to do with my sister’s disappearance, may I never find peace…”  She hadn’t finished before Chase gently covered her mouth, stopping her. He helped her up with a steady hand. “I believe you, so there is no need for such heavy promises.”  Nicole sobbed into his chest, and Chase gently patted her back. “There, there, no more tears.”  I rolled my eyes to the sky, feeling like I had overestimated Chase and underestimated Nicole.  Grandma was beside herself with anger. “Chase, Amanda’s missing because of her. Instead of distancing yourself, you’re this close, making everyone think you two are an item. Our family has a reputation to uphold.”  “Mom, it’s not as bad as you’re making it. Nicole grew up as his step–sister in the Reyes family. It’s normal for them to be close. Right now, finding Amanda is what’s important.”  Mom snorted, “Amanda’s just being mysterious. For all we know, she’s hiding somewhere, watching us squirm.”  “Exactly. Why else would she rent a place in Cloudville and not go after booking a flight? She’s putting up a front. They say a woman’s jealousy and thirst for revenge can burn like fire. Maybe my sister’s hiding just to mess with her husband and dragging all of us into  this mess  The more Chase listened, the deeper his frown grew, filled with unanswered questions. “You’re my in–laws, so rest assured, I’ll find Amanda as soon as possible,”  He let go of Nicole’s hand. “Grandma, I’ve always s have to take care of some things now.”  seen Nicole as a sister. From now on, I’ll keep my distance. This is the last time. I  Chase hurried off, ready to get into his car, when he bumped into a group of police officers led by Robert. Seeing Chase, Officer Robert nodded. “Mr. Reyes, has Mrs. Reyes made it back home yet?”