Before Nicole could finish her threat, a scream pierced the air, and Vicki tumbled down the front steps.
Thankfully, Vicki only descended three steps, but she still appeared to be in agony. Her cries echoed, and a red mark marred her ankle, quickly swelling.
Nicole regarded Vicki with suspicion. She hadnt laid a hand on Vicki moments before.
Vicki murmured in a hushed tone, Miss Lawrence, youve completely misunderstood
Before Vicki could finish her sentence, a man approached with a cold demeanor. Who are you planning to harm?
Jarrod noticed that Vicki hadnt been following him, and upon returning for her, he overheard Nicoles threat to kill someone just before Vickis fall down the steps.
Jarrod hurried to Vickis aid, carefully examining her for injuries.
Once assured there were none, he inquired, How did you fall?
Leaning against Jarrods chest, Vicki appeared frail and frightened, evoking sympathy from those around her.
I Im okay It wasnt because of Miss Lawrence Vicki faltered, her words sounding more like a defense of Nicole rather than an explanation. She seemed intent on avoiding conflict.
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In an instant, Vickis reputation improved further. An empathetic wealthy heiress became even
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.
more desirable.
As expected, Jarrod regarded Nicole with a frigid expression and demanded, Apologize to Vicki. He paid no heed to Vickis words or the truth. He simply believed what he had seen.
At this moment, Jarrod exuded the same cold demeanor as before.
Jarrod had resolved to teach Nicole a lesson, fueled by her repeated opposition to him in the past. He had decided that he would never again indulge her or plead with her. He desired for her to experience fear and to beg him as she had done in the past.
Nicole spoke icily. Firstly, I didnt push her. Secondly, I wish harm upon her because she intends to harm Austin. If you permit her to do so, I wont hesitate to kill you as well!
Vicki, covering her mouth in shock, protested, Miss Lawrence, whats gotten into you? Did I say anything negative about the child? I only expressed sympathy for your situation
Seemingly overwhelmed with emotion, Vicki choked on her sobs, tears streaming down her face. I only expressed sympathy for you as a mother, hence the offer to take care of your child. Did I say anything inappropriate?
Miss Lawrence, please refrain from slinging mud at me. Ive never committed any wrongdoing since childhood, as is evident to all,
Vicki asserted, turning her head with a tone of grievance. Jarrod, I swear on my familys life, I never intended any harm to her child. I merely mentioned caring for him
Jarrod nodded reassuringly, his tone gentle. I believe you.
Then, his gaze turned cold as he addressed Nicole, Apologize to Vicki!
Me? A mocking smile tugged at Nicoles lips. She scolded herself for being naively clinging to the hope that Jarrod might genuinely care for Austin. To Jarrod, Austin was merely a means to assert control over her.
Jarrod, its been over two weeks since you took Austin away. Have you taken him for a medical check-up? Do you even know the extent of his illness? Do you truly care for him? If not, why did you take him away? Answer me! Nicoles voice cracked with despair. She felt a sense of pity for both Austin and herself. They were like kites tethered by strings they couldnt shake loose.
Jarrod sneered, Its just a heart condition. Im searching for a donor for him.