Davey had exhausted every possible remedy with no success, eventually turning to acupuncture under Jimena's hand.

Despite the lack of progress over the years, Davey's hope never waned.

It seemed Casey was on the brink of awakening. Yet, Jimena hesitated to raise her hopes or speak of it to Davey. The fear of what might happen if this were merely a fleeting moment of consciousness was too great. The fate of the man who had erred twice and met his end in the jaws of sharks lingered in her mind as a grim warning.

Meanwhile, at the office, Nicole sat at her desk, closely watched by the observers Jarrod had sent over.

As she reached for her coffee, a slip of her hand sent it sprawling across her white suit, leaving a conspicuous stain. Muttering a curse, Nicole stood up and headed for the company's lounge, hoping to find some way to clean the mess.

As Nicole entered the lounge, the bodyguard dressed in black trailed behind her. Nicole placed a hand against his chest, a playful challenge in her eyes. "Is it Jarrod's orders to shadow me even to the shower?" she asked with a hint of amusement.

The bodyguard, maintaining a facade of professionalism, replied with a solemn tone, "Miss Lawrence, I apologize, but Alec instructed me to accompany you at all times."

"Alright then," Nicole said, her tone shifting as she playfully pulled at his tie, her smile turning inviting. Such a gesture was boldly provocative.

The bodyguard's composure faltered momentarily, a blush creeping up his earlobes despite his efforts to remain composed. He hesitantly followed her inside.

Without a second thought, Nicole shed her blazer, letting it fall to his feet, revealing a strapless black top that accentuated her figure.

The simplicity of the black attire became a statement of allure on her.

The bodyguard, caught off guard, managed a cough. "Miss Lawrence, could you please proceed inside to get changed?"

"Who said I was going to change my clothes?" Nicole countered, her approach smooth as she slipped out of her heels, her gaze bold and teasing.

She traced a finger along the bodyguard's shoulder, her voice sultry, hinting at an unspoken invitation. "Aren't you aware that a coffee spill calls for a shower?"

Her playful scrutiny intensified as she noticed his flushed face, her smile widening. She lightly touched his chin, the teasing in her voice unmistakable. "Why don't you see if Mr. Schultz's acquaintances measure up?"

Nicole turned, her hand poised on her skirt's zipper, appearing ready to take it off at any second.

The bodyguard dressed in black started to panic. Sweat beaded on his forehead and back, the thought of spying on Jarrod's woman filled him with fear. He would never dare to do so.

Even the mere thought of approaching someone Jarrod had let go was unthinkable for men of his caliber. Plus, Nicole had slept with Jarrod.

In his rush to leave, the bodyguard quickly left the room, slamming the door before Nicole could undress.

Once she heard the door shut, Nicole allowed a small smirk, grabbing a towel on her way to the shower.