Chapter 8 Two days later was Edward's birthday banquet . Jennifer was forced to attend by Alexander . The celebration was held at a private hotel in the southern district , arranged by Alexander himself . To bolster Nicole's standing , Alexander booked the entire floor to set the record straight . Jennifer stood in the corner , watching Edward hover around Alexander , her gaze gradually dimming . Guests streamed past her throughout the evening , each casting disdainful glances her way . " Isn't it obvious who truly runs the Smith Family now ? " " Seems Miss Harris is the real Mrs. Smith ? Wonder what dirty tricks she used to cling to Mr. Smith all these years . " Jennifer listened silently , her eyes flickering but showing no other reaction . She felt numb to the pain now . As she turned toward the elevator , Nicole followed close behind . Applying lipstick , Nicole shot her a sidelong glance . " Your agreement . takes effect in two days . You'll leave , right ? " Jennifer pressed the lobby button . " Mhm . " Nicole smiled with satisfaction . " I trust you'll honor the arrangement . " Jennifer averted her eyes . Suddenly - THUD ! The elevator jolted violently . Nicole was trapped inside , pounding frantically on the doors to no avail . Another deafening crash sent the elevator plunging downward . " Ah ! " Nicole screamed from within .. Jennifer fumbled for her phone . " Alexander ! Come quick ! The elevator malfunctioned ! Nicole's trapped ! " She banged on the metal doors , hoping for any response from Nicole . Alexander sprinted over , footsteps frantic and uneven . " What happened ? " Before fully stopping , he shouted Nicole's name between gasps for air . Rescue workers arrived after an agonizing wait , calling through the doors . " Are you hurt ? Can you respond ? " " Help me ! " Nicole clawed at the doors , voice raw . " My foot's stuck ! " Screeching metal echoed as light pierced the darkness . In her dazed state , Jennifer saw only Alexander kneeling anxiously , checking Nicole's injuries .