"I'm a friend of Mr. Watts. Could you please contact him and inform him that Nicole Lawrence is here? It's urgent. Please ask him to meet me."

"I'm sorry, miss. We strictly adhere to appointments for visitors. Unfortunately, I can't assist you." The receptionist declined firmly.

Though some smaller companies sought opportunities and numerous individuals wished to meet Roscoe, Miguel's manager maintained a strict policy against unscheduled visits. The receptionist hesitated to inquire informally.

Growing increasingly anxious, Nicole asserted, "I assure you, I'm genuinely acquainted with Mr. Watts. Please, just give him a call. If he declines, I'll depart immediately. Is that acceptable?"

The receptionist scrutinized Nicole's appearance, noting her attractiveness and impeccable attire, which didn't suggest deceit.

Despite her initial uncertainty, the receptionist couldn't make up her mind right away.

In a moment of recollection, Nicole found a photo of her and Roscoe together in her phone, feeling a surge of urgency as she presented it to the receptionist. “Here, you can see I do know Mr. Watts. Could you please make a call to confirm it, please?"

Examining the photo, the receptionist observed their distant acquaintance, affirming Roscoe's familiarity with Nicole.

After some hesitation, the receptionist nodded. “I'll contact his secretary for verification."

"Thank you," Nicole replied gratefully.

Dialing the number, the receptionist relayed Nicole's request. Though Nicole couldn't overhear the conversation, the receptionist responded affirmatively several times.

Upon ending the call, the receptionist addressed Nicole politely, "Miss, kindly wait here momentarily. Someone will come down soon."

Upon hearing this, Nicole exhaled a sigh of relief. Stationed in the hall, she pondered the best approach to convey the news to Roscoe.

With his memory of their shared past and anything related to her now void, would he believe her?

Yet, Nicole remained steadfast in her belief that Roscoe had simply lost part of his memory, not his faculties. If he harbored doubts and pursued inquiries, he would inevitably uncover Miguel's treachery.

Armed with awareness, he could thwart Miguel's schemes, or at least brace himself against them.

Abruptly, a woman's voice echoed from behind. "Nicole!"

Nicole turned around. She failed to discern the assailant's identity before a forceful slap struck her cheek.

The slap left Nicole in a state of shock, rendering her momentarily deaf to her surroundings.

In the ensuing moment, the woman attempted another slap.