Chapter 237

Debra stood on the second floor, a slight smirk playing on her lips as she watched Hester scurry about. She hadn't expected Hester to be so eager, but it worked in her favor. It saved her the trouble of devising another plan to bring Hester out into the open.

Returning to her room, Debra selected her gown for the evening. Naturally elegant, she didn't require much adornment, but tonight she intended to shine. It was time to leverage her identity as Mrs. Nichols and make a splash.

An hour later, she descended the stairs, but Hester was nowhere in sight. Melody sat on the sofa, her eyes narrowing as she took in Debra's attire. “It’s late. Who are you going out with, dressed like that?”

“Grandma, I have a business discussion with Mr. Nichols. It’s almost time, so I must leave now,” Debra replied, having no intention of accommodating her further.

“Debra, what’s with this attitude?” Melody snapped. “Have you forgotten how you begged me when you wanted to marry Juan?”

Debra paused, a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. Melody was old, always resorting to the same tactics. Turning back to face her, Debra said, “Grandma, how could I forget? Recently, the Nichols Group hasn't been performing well, and Juan needs to focus on business. My actions are to assist him.”

Melody scoffed, “Don’t sweet-talk me. If you truly cared for Juan’s welfare, why did you sell that land to Tracy?”

Debra frowned. Juan likely hadn't informed Melody about that incident. But who leaked the information? Her mind raced, and she quickly found her answer. There was someone in this household who desperately wanted to be in her good graces.

“Grandma, I’m pressed for time. Let’s discuss this when I return,” Debra said, turning to leave once more. Melody probably didn’t expect Debra to dismiss her so abruptly, her face souring.

As Debra exited the house, Hester finally emerged from her room. She wore a simple yet charming dress, her face flushed with anticipation. “Mrs. Nichols Sr.,” she greeted.

Melody glanced at her, frowning. “Are you going out?”

“Yes, I thought I’d take a walk.”

“Dressed like this?”

Not foolish, Melody quickly figured out her intentions. Seeing the smile vanish from Melody’s face, Hester bit her lip.

Melody’s tone turned stern. “I know you like Juan. But remember, being part of the Nichols family isn’t just about being obedient. You must remember your place.”

Hester understood the unspoken words. The Vargas family was insignificant. She could never marry into the Nichols family with her background. Melody had summoned her initially to stir Debra’s jealousy, not to actually push her into Juan’s arms. Hester understood she had overstepped.

Just as she was about to retreat, Melody added, “Well, you can go this time. If Juan asks, say it was my idea.”