Chapter 160

“You…” Juan began, but Erica cut him off with a cold interruption.

“Keep some dignity, Juan.”

Juan took a deep breath, knowing Debra wouldn’t intervene for Shelia. However, he couldn’t bear the thought of Andrew taking Shelia away.

Andrew observed Juan’s indecision and pressed, “Mr. Nichols, have you made a decision?”

Shelia’s panic mounted, her eyes wide with fear. “Juan, help me!” She knew falling into Andrew’s hands wouldn’t bode well. Everyone in Seamar City knew of Andrew’s devotion to Jordan. To rectify things for his brother, Andrew would stop at nothing.

Andrew twirled the ring on his finger and said calmly, “Since Mr. Nichols won’t speak, take her away.”

“Wait!” Juan exclaimed, his voice filled with resignation. “You can take her to the police station since she wrongly accused Jordan.”

“Juan!” Shelia gasped in disbelief. She never expected him to back down.

He approached her and spoke reluctantly, “It’s not a serious offense. I’ll have someone fetch you in a few days.”

“But…” Shelia’s face was etched with resentment. She knew that once in Andrew’s custody, it wouldn’t be as simple as a few days in jail. A criminal record would severely damage her future employment prospects and reputation.

Juan fell silent, allowing Andrew’s men to take Shelia away. Debra watched from the sidelines, her expression indifferent. She remembered how, in her past life, Juan had favored Shelia, defying Caleb and even Andrew. He never allowed Shelia to come to harm. Their fates had drastically changed. Debra wondered what had driven Juan to compromise. After all, Melody would never allow a woman with a criminal record to marry into their family. Juan should know this better than anyone.

Debra looked up and met his eyes, which seemed to hold complex emotions.

“Let’s go,” Erica said, taking Debra’s hand. She didn’t want to stay another second.

“Let’s go,” Andrew ordered. His bodyguards followed. Jordan cast a final glare at Juan before leaving the room.

Outside, Erica whispered, “With Andrew here, there’s nothing to fear.”

Debra stole a glance at Andrew’s back. He looked frail, his complexion paler than when they last met. Perhaps he was truly ill.

As they exited the hotel, Erica turned to Debra. “Where are you staying tonight? Are you going back to the Nichols’?”

Debra shook her head. After tonight’s events, returning to the Nichols’ would only invite trouble.

Jordan chimed in, “Come stay at my place. Tomorrow is my birthday.”