His moist eyes fortunately remained hidden behind a veil of water, concealing his emotions.

With her face covered, Nicole couldn't discern Jarrod's expression, but she sensed the fear emanating from the trembling body that held her. What was Jarrod afraid of?

As Nicole's head weighed heavy, she wondered if her judgment was flawed. After all, what could a man like Jarrod possibly be afraid of?

Nicole felt suffocated, on the verge of running out of air. She was in agony, and the tight embrace she was in intensified her already desperate yearning.

"Mmm..." A faint sound escaped her lips as she struggled to gasp for air.

Finally, as if breaking out of a trance, Jarrod released her head.

“Do you think I want to die? I wouldn't consider killing myself even if you died!" Nicole scolded harshly, shaking off his hand. “Don't touch me!"

Nicole ensured her earpiece was intact, relieved it hadn't plunged into the water. Otherwise, all her efforts would have been in vain.

Nicole's body emanated an uncontrollable heat, juxtaposed with Jarrod's presence that simultaneously seared her heart and provided a comforting coolness.

Struggling to maintain composure, Nicole coldly commanded, “Step aside!"

Despite her directive, Jarrod seized her once more. “Remember your words..."

Easily irritable because of the doctored drink, Nicole shot a disbelieving look at him. "Get lost!"

Jarrod, unfazed, showed no sign of anger.

Beneath the night sky, his chiseled profile remained sharp and clear, and his eyes were deep and mysterious. Turning pale, he uttered, "If I die one day, live well."

At that moment, Nicole glimpsed a myriad of emotions in his eyes.

Reluctance, unwillingness, desire... But almost immediately, she dismissed the notion, convinced her mind was addled today. How could someone as cold and heartless as Jarrod harbor such complex feelings?

With a weak smile, Nicole assured him, "Don't worry. Not only will I live well, but I'll also celebrate your death with fireworks."

Jarrod's eyes deepened, a self-mocking smile gracing his lips.

Ignoring Nicole's resistance, he forcefully hoisted her over his shoulder.

Panic surged through Nicole, her fists pounding on his back as she gritted her teeth. "Put me down!"