That doctor had taken money for a sham surgery, linked to the Lawrence Group.

Nicole's parents had confirmed Nicole only told them she was affected by a mere stomach ulcer.

Kieran, indeed Nicole's ex-boyfriend, was often seen near Nicole's home.

ALL evidence seemed to point to Nicole's infidelity, challenging her desperate claims of innocence.

Yet, Nicole's voice carried unwavering sincerity.

"I didn't lie to you, nor have I lied about my illness. What will I gain when lying to you that I am at the jaw of death?"

Jarrod's expression shifted subtly at the mention of death, a hint of discomfort marring his features.

A fracture appeared in the icy exterior of his heart.

Images of Nicole's demise haunted him -- intense headaches, chilling sweat, a fear he couldn't explain.

But he quickly cast these thoughts aside. He didn't think she would die this easily. How could that be possible?

Grabbing Nicole's collar in anger, Jarrod issued a stark warning, “Remember, you need my permission to die. Otherwise, I'll ensure your entire family joins you!"

Pain lanced through Nicole's heart.

She knew that even after her demise, he wouldn't spare her family.

What humanity remained when one was denied even the right to die?

She felt reduced to a mere puppet, a hollow being.

Summoning her courage, Nicole uttered each word with difficulty, “What if I say the child is yours?"

Jarrod once dreamed of having a child with Nicole.

During their college romance, Nicole often whispered to Jarrod, “Jarrod, I want to have your child!"

Their bodies would mingle together as they engaged in passionate moments. But, as students, they lacked the money to raise a baby and start a family, so they took precautions and decided to wait until graduation.

But that day never arrived.