They believed Vicki was doing more than enough, and Nicoles demands seemed unreasonable. Allowing the future hostess to be humbled in front of the bosss ex was unacceptable. It was time for them to demonstrate their support.
One of the guards, feeling protective of Vicki, stepped forward, his presence commanding. Miss Hampton, this woman is causing a disturbance. Perhaps we should escort her out to avoid further trouble.
No need, Vicki quickly said, her voice still warm and soothing.
Austins mother is understandably worried about her childs caregiver. Its natural for her to feel anxious. She didnt mean any harm. Shes just concerned for her loved ones. Lets not be too harsh on her.
Vickis words subtly painted Nicole as unreasonable and overly focused on her own concerns without showing any hint of respect.
Nicole, disliking such indirect manipulations, refused to engage in Vickis games. Vicki, may I see Kamilah? she asked.
You had called Jarrod earlier, right? If he hadnt granted you access, unfortunately, theres nothing I can do, Vicki responded with a show of helplessness.
Vicki had been watching Nicole from the balcony since her arrival, observing her every move, including her desperate phone call. Despite Nicoles pleas, Jarrod had not permitted her entry.
Vicki felt her position was finally solid. She was glad she hadnt heeded Doreens advice to make things more difficult for Nicole.
Instead, she continued to cultivate her image as a devoted wife and mother, which had significantly solidified Jarrods trust in her, diminishing any remaining influence Nicole might have held.
Can I at least talk to Austin? Nicole asked, her tone more subdued, almost pleading.
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Given that Austins wellbeing was now ostensibly in Vickis control, Nicole knew she had little leverage.
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.
Vickis expression turned visibly self-satisfied as she denied the request. Im sorry, Nicole. Jarrod doesnt want you to have any contact with Austin.
Rejected once more, Nicole felt her frustration mounting, leaving her at a loss.
Vicki, seizing on Nicoles vulnerability, lowered her voice conspiratorially. Nicole, dont say I never offered you anything. Why dont you come back to work tonight? If Im in a good mood, I might just let you see Austin.
Nicoles head snapped up. Really?
Of course, Vicki replied with a gleeful smile. After all, when Jarrods away, Im in charge of the Schultz household.
Nicole was painfully aware that Vicki was right. Jarrod was too preoccupied with business matters to manage the home, relying instead on a hostess to oversee domestic affairs.
Ill hold you to that promise, but you must let me see Austin. If you deceive me, Ill fight you with everything Ive got, Nicole warned Vicki sternly.
However, Vicki barely took Nicoles threats seriously. To fight with everything she had got? With someone she considered frail and nearing their end? It seemed laughable to her.
Vicki waved her hand dismissively. Ive said youll see him, but
Vicki paused, her smile turning sly. Youll need to meet my conditions.
Okay. Nicole agreed reluctantly. Ill do what you ask, as long as I get to see Austin.
Make sure you dress appropriately, Vicki added, her smile chilling.