Vicki is here? Jarrods gaze intensified.
The maid hastily responded, Yes, Miss Hampton is upstairs, keeping Austin company. I descended to prepare some pumpkin porridge for him.
Jarrod scowled. Since Austins arrival, Vicki hadnt been brought here again.
Despite Vicki expressing her desire to visit Austin, Jarrod seemed unaccountably unwilling.
Who permitted her entry? Jarrods displeasure was evident.
The maid was startled. Wasnt Vicki his fiance? Why did Jarrod deny her entry?
Alec promptly clarified, Mr. Schultz, I escorted Miss Hampton here. She mentioned having left behind an earring in the villa, and upon her arrival, a particular circumstance arose. Austins usual nanny fell suddenly ill. I arranged for the nanny to be taken to the hospital, and Miss Hampton volunteered to care for him.
Despite Alecs lengthy explanation, Jarrods furrowed brow remained unrelieved.
In haste, Alec uttered, I was unaware that Miss Hampton hadnt departed yet
Before he could conclude, Jarrod had already ascended the stairs toward Austins room.
The door flung open with force.
Just as Jarrod poised to speak, he beheld Vicki reclining beside Austins bed, her eyes narrowed as if
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succumbing to slumber from exhaustion. A basin of water and a cloth lay nearby, while another cloth adorned Austins forehead.
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The maid who trailed behind hastened to clarify, Last night, Austin inexplicably developed a fever. Miss Hampton tended to him throughout the night, adamantly refusing medication, citing Austins frail constitution. She opted for physical cooling instead. Despite our entreaties for her to rest, her concern for Austin prevailed, compelling her to remain by his side
Jarrods demeanor softened upon hearing this.
Vicki appeared to be roused by the commotion. She opened her eyes drowsily and beheld Jarrod, her countenance brightening. Jarrod, youve returned.
Jarrod nodded before suggesting, If youre tired, grab some rest in the guest room.
Vicki said, Im not tired. She then deftly checked Austins temperature with her hand, demonstrating the proficiency seemingly acquired from last nights extensive monitoring.
A long sigh of relief escaped her, accompanied by a joyful proclamation, His fever has finally subsided. I was so scared.
Vickis concern appeared genuine. Jarrod said, You should rest now.
Just then, Austin stirred awake and caught sight of Jarrod, promptly inquiring, Mr. Schultz, where is my mother?
The way Austin addressed Jarrod struck a chord in Jarrod, instantly contorting his expression into one of intense displeasure.
Vicki urgently grasped Austins arm and said gently, Austin, hes your father. You cant address him as Mr. Schultz.
Austin gazed at Jarrod, yet refrained from addressing him as dad.
Ultimately, he bypassed formalities and queried directly, Wheres my mother?