"Don't touch me!" Nicole, like a startled bird, quickly stepped back and glared at Jarrod with wide eyes.

Nicole's eyes, filled with loathing, revulsion, and resolve, showed no sign of thankfulness. The woman, her mouth hanging open, realized she might have misunderstood the situation.

Moved by compassion, the woman supported the weak Nicole, saying, “Miss, don't be scared..."

The mood suddenly became tense.

The woman hesitated to say more, realizing her good intentions might have led to this awkward situation. Mr. Schultz was regarded as a decent man, and Nicole with a troubled look seemed far from malicious.

It was unclear who was truly good or bad here.

"Jarrod!" A cheerful woman's voice pierced the uneasy silence.

Vicki, dressed in a flowing white designer gown, briskly walked up and handed a bouquet to Jarrod, saying, “Jarrod, congratulations on your exoneration."

Jarrod accepted it, simply replying, “Thank you."

Vicki, pleased just to receive his gratitude, suggested, "You should really treat me to a nice dinner."

Jarrod glanced briefly at Nicole before focusing on Vicki, his expression becoming tender. "Let's go."

The pair then walked away together.

Nicole felt as if her whole body was drenched in sweat, her legs shaky. Thankfully, the woman was there to support her.

Nicole belatedly realized she had miscalculated. Completely missed the mark! She had not even considered Vicki, which was incredibly foolish of her.

The woman, seeing sweat bead on Nicole's forehead, showed her concern.

"Miss, perhaps we should go to the hospital."

"No, thank you." Nicole withdrew from the woman's grasp and quickly followed the path Jarrod and Vicki had taken.

As Nicole chased after Jarrod to the door, his silver sports car, with Vicki already seated inside, had started up. "Jarrod!" Nicole shouted.

The silver sports car sped off without pausing, leaving a trail of arrogant smoke.

Nicole clenched her fists. He had definitely seen her. Yet, he drove off, his face smug as if he had already triumphed.