Seated on the sofa, Jarrod watched her futile attempts at self-defense with a cold gaze. His inner rage was still boiling. Damn it!

What he was seeing only fueled his frustration.

All he wanted was to intimidate her and force her into submission and obedience.

He wanted to see her kneeling and begging to terminate the pregnancy with her illegitimate child.

If she agreed to an abortion, he might even consider forgiving her previous involvements with other men.

As long as he had the means to control her, even if he had to go as far as chaining her, she wouldn't be able to cheat anymore, would she?

Anger clouded Jarrod's handsome face as he watched Nicole's desperate efforts to protect herself.

Those men around Nicole were oblivious to his true intentions.

Jarrod had explicitly instructed Alec to have some men merely intimidate Nicole. So, why were they advancing toward her? Nicole, so disheveled and vulnerable, looked pitiful.

Just as Jarrod was about to lose his composure, a sudden loud crash echoed through the room.

Nicole had smashed the bottle she was holding, sending glass shards flying. Holding the jagged, broken end, she pressed it against her own neck.

The room was filled with shock at the unexpected turn.

Those men had been so engrossed in their performance, never anticipating such a dramatic turn of events.

Nicole's eyes, once sparkling, were now dim.

Facing Jarrod, her voice was cold.

“Jarrod, my father canceled my engagement with you, fearing I might not lead a good life with you.

Back then, I was mad at him and failed to understand his concerns.

We argued, and I even refused to eat.

But was his desire to protect me so unforgivable? Did your family be killed by my family? Why do you want us all dead?

Is it just because you believe I played with your feelings?