Chapter 497 + 25 BONUS

The specter of her past loomed large, and the last thing Shelia wanted was for it to be publicly revealed. Joe’s hint was as subtle as a freight train; its implication was crystal clear. The Nichols family couldn't afford to welcome a former mistress, fresh off the heels of a lost child, into their esteemed household. They needed to maintain appearances, present a united front, and resurrect their floundering reputation and finances.

Declan, grasping the situation, said, “Jade, don’t make a scene.”

“Dad…”

“I understand Mr. Nichols’ concerns,” Declan said, turning his attention back to Joe. “He’s doing what’s best for the Nichols family. Since you’ve divorced Debra, how long must my daughter wait?”

Juan remained silent, leaving Joe to fill the void. “Six months. The contract with Ms. Frazier ends in six months. Until then, Miss Blair will have to be patient.”

Shelia bristled. “Why should I wait? The position of Mrs. Nichols should be mine!”

“Silence!” Declan barked.

Shelia shrank back in submission.

Declan stood up. “Well, six months it is. I trust Mr. Nichols will keep his word.”

Juan nodded. “Naturally.”

At Juan’s signal, Joe stepped forward, presenting the cooperation agreement to Declan. “Though Mr. Nichols isn’t engaged to Miss Blair, our business dealings with the Blair family will continue. You can rest assured, Mr. Blair.”

Declan nodded in relief. Aligning with the Nichols family meant he no longer needed Edgar’s support.

“Don’t worry, Mr. Nichols. I’ll make sure Shelia understands her place. We won’t cause any trouble.”

“Good.”

Declan gripped Shelia’s arm, dragging her from the room despite her protests.

“Dad, why are we leaving? I need to talk to him,” she whined.

Declan spun around. “Talk to him? The situation is clear, and it won’t change. Use your brain.”

“But…” Shelia’s face contorted with frustration. Juan had promised to marry her, and now he was reneging, still entangled with Debra. It was intolerable.

“Dad, I can’t stand watching Debra still hold that position. You need to help me.”

“Don’t cause any more trouble. This is a warning. If you step out of line, don’t blame me for what happens next.”

The warmth in Declan’s eyes had vanished, replaced by a cold, calculating gaze. Shelia paled, suddenly realizing the precariousness of her position.

“If you still want to be Miss Blair, you’ll do as I say. Otherwise…”

“Dad…”

“Don’t call me that. In public, you’re my daughter. In private, remember your place.”

His harsh words sent a shiver down her spine. She regretted listening to Juan and revealing her identity to Declan.