"Mr. Hickman, we''re striving for a win-win partnership. With yourpany''s strength and the resources that Serena and I bring to the table, our coboration will generate even greater value."


    "Well said, Mr. Hastings."


    Hearing this, I let out a quiet sigh of relief.


    This negotiation had been even more challenging than expected. The otherpany had been pressing hard, and if it hadn''t been for Alex''s skillful mediation, this deal might have fallen apart.


    Atst, both sides reached an agreement and signed the contract. This matter was finally settled.


    "Serena, now that the deal is done, how about a little celebration?" Alex''s voice carried a subtle trace of anticipation.


    I declined politely, "Maybe next time. I have some things to take care of."


    Just as Alex was about to say something, my phone rang. The caller ID showed it was Harrison.


    "Sorry, I need to take this." I shot an apologetic nce at him. He gave me a nod of understanding, and I stepped into a quiet corner to answer the call.


    "Hello, Mr. ck. What''s the matter?"


    "Ms. Ashford, there have been some new developments regarding the Ashford family''s situation. We need to meet as soon as possible." His tone was serious.


    A sinking feeling hit my chest. "I''m currently on a business trip and won''t be back until the day after tomorrow at the earliest."


    "Understood, Ms. Ashford. I''ll wait for your return."


    After hanging up, I rubbed my temples as a wave of frustration welled up inside me. Mom and I had left the Ashford family long ago, so why were there problems now?


    At the same time, Alex received a call of his own.


    "What did you say? The Ashford family is looking for Nicole? Why?" His voice was filled with confusion.


    "The exact reason is unclear, but it doesn''t seem like they have good intentions," the person on the other end said gravely.


    Alex ended the call, his brows furrowing together as he wondered why the Ashford family was looking for Nicole?


    Would this affect Serena?


    He watched as Serena walked back


    toward him and hesitated


    momentarily. Ultimately, he decided against telling her. Some things were better faced on her own terms.


    Back at the hotel, I decided to call Mom and ask her directly.


    Each ring hammered against my already frayed nerves. An ominous feeling which was impossible to ignore, crept over me. When I got no answer, I redialed, but she still didn''t pick up.


    Frustrated, I raked my fingers through my hair. Something was wrong.


    I forced myself to stay calm and called Alex.


    "Alex, my mom isn''t answering her phone. I''m getting worried." My voice trembled slightly.


    There was a brief silence on the other end before he said, "Serena, don''t panic. I''ll send someone to check on her."


    After hanging up, I could no longer suppress my anxiety and paced the room restlessly. No matter how I thought about it, something felt off. Gripping my phone, I decided book the earliest flight back to


    Atego.


    A sudden knock at the door shattered the silence. The sound was firm and


    rhythmic, like a hammer against Nicole''s taut nerves.


    Hearing it, she frowned impatiently. "Come in."


    A maid cautiously pushed open the door. "Mrs. Hastings Senior, two guests outside are asking to see you."