Chapter 2928"Good idea, we should try it," Ryder said, impressed and in agreement with Nicole's proposal.
After deciding on their next steps, the team got busy implementing their plan.
"Done!" they exclaimed, as the clock neared noon.
With a collective cheer, they finally completed the program on Nicole's computer.
"It's perfect timing.
You can take the program with you, and our mission here is accomplished," Preston said with a sigh of
relief.
He had been under a lot of pressure these past few days, worried about affecting Nicole's work.
“Thank you all," Nicole expressed her gratitude.
"Since it's lunchtime, let's eat together." “Sounds good, I'm starving after working all morning," Preston
said, rubbing his stomach.
“Let's go then," Ryder and Gary agreed.
Nicole smiled, "I'm paying, as a thank you for your help." "No need for that," Gary laughed.
"We're friends, aren't we? It would be odd to be so formal." "Exactly, because you're friends, I want to
treat you.
How else will I have the nerve to ask for your help in the future?" Nicole replied, still smiling.
Preston teased Gary, Don't argue with her, you never win against Nicole." “That's true," Gary shrugged."I've never won when it comes to Nicole." Their banter lightened the mood, and they all laughed
together.
After leaving Finley Group, they found a nearby restaurant and settled into a private room.
As they ordered their meal, Nicole raised her glass of water, “Here's to all of you." “No need to thank us
again, let's just celebrate our success," Gary suggested.
novelbinNicole looked at him, shaking her head, "I need to thank not just you and Preston, but Ryder too."
Ryder lifted his glass.
"You don't need to thank me.
You helped me in the past, so it's only right that I help you now." Nicole blinked in surprise, "I did?" "It
was along time ago, so you probably don't remember," Ryder explained.
Nicole shook her head.
"It must have been something small, otherwise I would remember." Ryder smiled gently.
"Whether you remember or not doesn't matter.
I can't forget." Nicole, half-amused, said, “Well, you've helped me plenty of times now.
We're even, so I still need to thank you." Preston proposed, "Let's drink this water and call it even.
From now on, we're just friends." “Agreed, we're friends," Gary chimed in.
After the toast, Nicole urged, "Let's eat.
It's been a busy morning." “Nicole, you're amazing.Your plan is really good," Gary praised her.
“And I've learned a lot from your methods," Preston added, nodding in admiration.
‘Even after five years, Nicole's skills have only improved,' they thought.
Nicole, trying to deflect the compliments, said with a smile, "Stop flattering me, you're making me
blush."