Although Jemma had refrained from divulging this to Nicole, she had actually received assistance from the Lawrence family in the past.
However, she had found herself ensnared in the entertainment industry, feeling ashamed for failing to meet the expectations of Nicoleâs father.
Jemma had been lured into the industry by her first love, who ultimately betrayed her and delivered her into the hands of a powerful man.
At a tender age, she was left scarred and incapable of bearing children.
She entered the entertainment realm to seek retribution against that influential individual.
Fortunately, Jemma later encountered someone even more influential who assisted her in achieving justice when that influential individual faced a downfall.
Even after attaining justice, Jemma found herself unable to return to her former life.
Nicoleâs father stood out as a rare beacon of goodness, possessing the sagacity of a merchant and a generous heart.
It was lamentable that he had been beset by such misfortune.
With Nicole being the only child, Jemma naturally felt compelled to look after Nicoleâs well-being.
However, Jemma struggled to come to terms with the fact that she had once received support from Nicoleâs father yet still ended up in this industry.
It felt too humiliating.
Nicole reached out and took hold of Jemmaâs arm, resting her head against it.
âI understand, Jemma.
â
Despite not being as old as a retiree, Jemma had accrued a wealth of experiences, rendering her far more mature than her peers.
At times, Nicole regarded Jemma as an elder sister, yet there were certain matters she couldnât confide in anyone about.
After a moment of hesitation, Jemma gently patted Nicoleâs head and offered, âTake care of yourself, and that will bring me joy.
â
âI willâ¦â After a brief interlude of gathering herself, Nicole felt considerably more composed.
Rising to her feet, she addressed Jemma, âJemma, you should attend to your affairs.
Iâll do the same.
â
âAlright.
â
With that, the two women went their separate ways.
Nicole made her way to the chamber indicated by Vicki.
Upon entering, she found Vicki and Doreen awaiting her.
Maintaining a neutral expression, Nicole inquired, âMiss Hampton, what do you require of me?â
Vicki stifled a laugh behind her hand.
âI do not need your services.
Itâs Doreen who wishes to speak with you.
â
Nicole regarded Doreen, detecting a simmering anger in Doreenâs gaze.
Without warning, Doreen rose abruptly and delivered a resounding slap across Nicoleâs face.
âHave you become blind in just a few days? Canât you see me?â
Nicoleâs head recoiled from the force of the blow, her ear ringing painfully.
Doreen had been harboring the urge to deliver this slap for days on end.
The time Nicole attended her wedding and caused a scene, Doreen had been on the brink of throttling Nicole to death.
If it hadnât been for Jarrodâs timely intervention, Nicole would have endured a savage beating at the hands of Miguel, as a means for Doreen to vent her anger.
Jarrodâs feelings for Nicole remained an enigma to Doreen.