Victor and Nikki's relationship as friends broke down around this time, too, after she tried to console him. After Victor disappeared again, Nikki became determined to find him, however, she ended up getting involved with her early love, private investigator and long time friend Paul, while Victor and Ashley reconnected. By May 2009, Nikki accepted Paul's marriage proposal, but the night before their wedding, she broke things off and left town.
Victor and Nikki's friendship deteriorated around this time, after she attempted to comfort him. After Victor vanished again, Nikki became determined to locate him, but ended up getting involved with her former love, private investigator and long-time friend Paul, while Victor and Ashley rekindled their connection. By May 2009, Nikki accepted Paul's marriage proposal, but the night before their wedding, she called off the engagement and left town.