Jarrod exited the car, grasped Nicole's hand, and led her inside.

Nicole was frustrated. Despite her intentions to manipulate Jarrod, being touched by him made her feel sick. She wished she could shed that touched skin. She came to realize that she couldn't even exploit him effectively.

Nicole tried to pull away, but Jarrod's grip was firm, and she stumbled into his embrace when he pulled her in.

Jarrod's tone was icy, almost Like a threat. "Stop wriggling, or I'll carry you inside."

Nicole ceased struggling. Being carried inside by him would be far worse than her hand being held by him.

Together, they entered the restaurant, appearing to outsiders like a loving couple.

Yet, Nicole's expression betrayed her true feelings: unwilling and somewhat resentful.

Getting inside, Jarrod chose to sit in the main dining area instead of a chamber and ordered, “Bring us Shrimp and Grits, please."

Nicole was momentarily taken aback. Shrimp and Grits... It was the first dish she had ever cooked for Jarrod back in their college days.

Back then, they skipped the cafeteria meals, and she would bring him Shrimp and Grits daily. Jarrod always finished the Shrimp and Grits she made. For three whole months, he never missed a meal she prepared.

Not long after, when Jarrod left, Nicole found herself making Shrimp and Grits every single day, missing him terribly. A week into this routine, she couldn't stand it anymore and felt nauseous.

Nicole marveled at how Jarrod had savored the same dish for three months as if it were a gourmet meal.

Reflecting on their past moments brought a mix of emotions, especially considering their current situation. Nicole internally cursed Jarrod and her complex feelings. She was unsure of Jarrod's intentions of bringing her here tonight.

As the Shrimp Grits arrived, Nicole felt a wave of nausea and looked around for a bin. Her attention was diverted when she noticed a couple entering the restaurant.

The man, stylish in a white shirt and black trousers, exuded a cool charm, It had been ages since Nicole last saw Jarrod, and equally long since she had seen Roscoe.

One question dominated her thoughts at the sight of Roscoe. Was this dapper man really Roscoe?

Under the bright lights, Roscoe's clear-eyed gaze confirmed it. He was indeed Roscoe.

Nicole subtly bowed her head, her expression caught by Jarrod's icy gaze.

The young girl with Roscoe eagerly greeted Jarrod, calling him "Uncle."

Jarrod acknowledged her with a nod.