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, as Nikki attempted to comfort Victor after he disappeared again. Nikki then began a relationship with her former love, private investigator Paul, while Victor and Ashley reconnected. By May 2009, Nikki accepted Paul's marriage proposal but broke it off the night before their wedding and left town.