Chapter 48

Dad intervened, attempting to quell the brewing storm. "Mom, Nicole's intentions were good. Don't take it out on her."

Grandma stared at Dad, eyes wide with disbelief. "Have you lost your senses? I suspect Nicole had something to do with Amanda's disappearance, and you're defending her! Is Nicole's life worth more than Amanda's?"

Tears streamed down Nicole's face as she vehemently shook her head. "Grandma, I was too ill to attend my sister's wedding. I didn't even see her that day, let alone know where she went."

"Exactly," someone chimed in. "Nicole has always been gentle and kind. If she knew anything about Amanda's whereabouts, she would have told us. There's nothing to gain by keeping it a secret."

"Mom, I understand you're worried about Amanda, but you can't lash out at Nicole. Her health is already fragile."

While the Kennedy family rallied around Nicole, Chase approached her, his demeanor icy and distant. He towered over her kneeling form; his usual warmth vanished, replaced by a chilling coldness.

Had Chase finally seen Nicole for who she truly was?

In a voice as cold as winter, he asked, "Nicole, have you been lying to me? I need the truth."

Nicole met his steely gaze, biting her lip. "Chase, I'm telling the truth. I haven't lied."

"Nicole, we've known each other for years. I hope you're being honest. Do you understand?"

Nicole shook her head. "I swear to God, Chase. If I had anything to do with my sister's disappearance, may I never find peace..."

Before she finished, Chase gently covered her mouth, stopping her. He helped her up with a steady hand. "I believe you, so there's no need for such solemn promises."

Nicole sobbed into his chest, and Chase patted her back. "There, there, no more tears."

I rolled my eyes, feeling I had overestimated Chase and underestimated Nicole.

Grandma's anger escalated. "Chase, Amanda's missing because of her! Instead of distancing yourself, you're this close, making everyone think you two are an item. Our family has a reputation to uphold."

"Mom, it's not as bad as you're making it out to be. Nicole grew up as his stepsister in the Reyes family. It's normal for them to be close. Right now, finding Amanda is what matters."

Mom snorted. "Amanda's just being mysterious. For all we know, she's hiding somewhere, watching us squirm."

"Exactly. Why else would she rent a place in Cloudville and not take a flight? She's putting up a front. They say a woman's jealousy and thirst for revenge can burn like fire. Maybe my sister's hiding to spite her husband, dragging us all into this mess."

Chase's frown deepened, filled with unanswered questions. "You're my in-laws, so rest assured, I'll find Amanda as soon as possible."

He released Nicole's hand. "Grandma, I've always seen Nicole as a sister. From now on, I'll keep my distance. This is the last time. I have to take care of some things now."

Chase hurried towards his car, bumping into a group of police officers led by Robert. Officer Robert nodded. "Mr. Reyes, has Mrs. Reyes returned home yet?"