Chapter 2480

Nicole snuggled close to Jared, murmuring, “When people are happy, they drink more. And guess what? I’m starting to remember stuff from school.”

Jared looked at her. Lately, she had been remembering a lot from her childhood and her time at Royal Creek Institute.” What about that cafe?” Jared asked her softly, remembering it was from her school days.

“Cafe?” Nicole frowned and then shook her head. “I don’t remember.”

Jared smiled affectionately at her. “Let’s go home.”

“Mhm, home,” Nicole replied, nestling her head on Jared’s shoulder. She smiled in contentment.

They soon returned to the Riddle family manor. Though everyone had gone to bed, the lights in the living room remained on, likely for those not yet home. As Jared carried Nicole inside, the butler, still up, was waiting forthem.

“Mr. Johnston,” the butler began, his gaze lingering on Nicole who seemed a bit unsteady. “Should I prepare something to help her sober up?”

“No need,” Jared responded quickly. “She’s a little tipsy, but she’s fine.”

The butler simply nodded. “Alright then.”

Jared began to ascend the stairs, holding Nicole in his arms.

He called back, “Turn off the lights. They won’t be coming back.”

The butler looked surprised. ‘Samuel and Spencer aren’t returning tonight? They didn’t inform us.’

However, taking Jared’s word for it, the butler turned off the lights and headed to bed.

“How do you know they won’t be back? Did they tell you?” Nicole asked, frowning slightly. ‘I don’t remember hearing that.’

“With June and Lulu as drunk as they were, someone needs to look after them,” Jared explained while carrying Nicole to their room.

Nicole thought, ‘That makes sense. They should have someone take care of them.’

Once in the room, Nicole said, “Put me down.”

Jared set her on her feet. But her legs felt weak, and she wobbled. Before she could trip, Jared wrapped his arms around her.

Looking up at him, a bit dazed, Nicole touched his face and blurted out, “You’re really handsome.”

Jared caught her hands. “Easy there.”

“What’s the deal? I’m just saying.” Nicole pouted. “You’ve always been a looker.”

Jared’s gaze and tone softened. “So have you.”

Nicole giggled, her face lighting up like a proud kid. Jared swallowed hard and leaned down, kissing her. Nicole blinked, her eyes wide with surprise.