Meanwhile, Roscoe grappling with Alec at the door, yelled, “Release her, you lunatic Jarrod finally let Nicole go after his forceful demonstration.

Cupping her cheeks, his eyes tinged with red, he chillingly grinned.

"Nicole, you can't beat me, and I won't ever release you again.”

His tone was cold, like a curse, sending chills down Nicole's spine.

At that moment, law enforcement officers reached, asking, “Is Mr. Jarrod Schultz here?"

Jarrod let go of Nicole, composed. "That's me."

The officers flashed their badges and then stated, "Mr. Schultz, we've received reports implicating you in financial fraud and illicit backstage dealings. Please come with us for questioning."

“Okay," Jarrod responded calmly, without resistance.

Passing by Alec, Jarrod instructed, “Take care of her."

Take care? Alec was seething, wanting nothing more than to be rid of Nicole. But he wouldn't disobey Jarrod, nodding. “Understood."

Jarrod glanced back at Nicole, his smile unexpectedly gentle.

Nicole couldn't understand what amused him. Feeling a cold shiver, she watched his calm departure, deepening her unease.

At that moment, Nicole saw once again the unyielding, ruthless Jarrod, who stopped at nothing, showing no vulnerability. This realization weighed heavily on her, making her feel weak.

Roscoe immediately supported her, his face full of concern. "Nicole, what's wrong?"

Feeling drained, Nicole leaned heavily on Roscoe's arm. Everything felt surreal to her.

Roscoe gently reassured her, "Nicole, don't worry. Let's head back."

Nicole nodded.

As they prepared to leave, Alec blocked their path. “Feeling under the weather, Miss Lawrence? Need a doctor?"

His tone dripped with sarcasm. Nicole caught his implication and replied icily, "No, thanks."

Alec's mockery grew. "Well, if you change your mind, let me know. Mr. Schultz made it clear I should take care of you."