Behind Nicole, Alec observed her back with a steely gaze. He didn't share Jarrod's sentiments for Nicole. To him, Jarrod's safety was paramount.

Should Jarrod not survive, Alec would no longer feel bound by Jarrod's directives. He would eliminate Nicole himself to ensure she followed Jarrod to the grave.

At Doreen's villa.

Doreen exited the black Mercedes SUV from the rear seat. She had hoped to sit in the front, but a large box Roscoe placed there made her choose the back seat instead, as she felt too shy to ask him to move it.

After stepping out of the car, Doreen lingered around the car, casting admiring glances at Roscoe. She was anticipating him asking for her contact details. It struck her as odd since they had enjoyed a lovely evening yet hadn't exchanged contact details. At least, she assumed they had a wonderful night together.

Noticing Doreen still by the vehicle, Roscoe courteously said, “Miss Schultz, farewell."

With that, he began to roll up the window, preparing to drive off.

Doreen was taken aback. Was that all? Why hadn't he requested her contact information? Did he expect her, a lady, to make the first move? Questions swirled in Doreen's mind.

Just as Roscoe's car started to pull away, Doreen mustered the courage and said, "Roscoe..."

Roscoe turned to her, and a single look from him made Doreen blush.

He was excessively handsome, his gaze clear. His eyes conveyed warmth.

Blushing, Doreen mustered the courage to say, “Did you forget something?"

“What did I forget?" Roscoe inquired, genuinely puzzled.

"I was referring to my contact information." Doreen, cheeks red, ventured, "If we don't exchange numbers, how will we stay in touch once we're apart?"

“There's no need," Roscoe simply replied.

“Huh?" Doreen was puzzled, thinking Roscoe hadn't caught her drift, and impulsively said, “Roscoe, I really like..."

Roscoe showed no interest in continuing the conversation, cutting her off with an air of detachment, "Miss Schultz, our meeting today has concluded."

"What?" Doreen was taken aback, her voice quivering. "Roscoe, what are you implying?"

Roscoe stated plainly, “I came to meet you today at the behest of my family. Now that it's over, there's no need for further interaction."

"But Roscoe, we seemed to connect so well today..."