Observing her pallor, Jarrod gave in, pressing the elevator button with a bit of force. He then drove her to her place of work.

Before she stepped out of the vehicle, Nicole extended her hand. "My phone, please."

Jarrod took out her phone, unblocked himself in the contacts, and handed it back to her. He said with a casual tone, almost teasingly, “Had to ensure you didn't block me out. How else are we supposed to interact?"

Nicole offered just a smile in response, choosing to remain silent.

Jarrod then inquired, "Got any plans for the weekend?"

"I'm not sure yet."

“I'll come for you this weekend."

Their exchange seemed to miss a connection.

Nicole offered no objection, and simply bid him a courteous farewell.

“I must go now."

And with that, she walked away with poise.

Once out of sight, Nicole pulled out her phone and spoke to someone.

"Inform the head of the Hampton family about today's event in detail."

The Hamptons family. Nicole's father's demise was tied to a contract involving the Hampton family as a third participant.

Winning over the Hamptons required starting with Jarrod.

In the world of business, profits often led to priorities. Jarrod's impulsive purchases at an inflated rate for her would inevitably strain his partnership with the Hamptons.

On the roadside, Jarrod remained seated in his car, watching her departure, and lit a cigarette.

His phone buzzed. It was Alec. "Mr. Schultz, should we downplay the recent news?"

Some board members were already questioning Jarrod's rash decisions.

Yet, they felt powerless to intervene.