Jarrod realized bringing up the topic wasn't wise, given Nicole's health. He changed the subject. “You know, adoption is pretty straightforward these days. We can adopt a child if we want to start a family."

Nicole chuckled. "Jarrod, do you think of a child as some kind of toy for your entertainment?”

She couldn't hold back anymore. "Someone like you shouldn't have children!"

Jarrod, known for his short temper and having faced Nicole's scorn repeatedly, struggled to keep calm. But then, he recalled her reaction when they had sex intercourse in front of the glass.

Men shared a common weakness. They could tolerate a lot once they knew a woman remained untouched. Jarrod was delighted about Nicole's purity.

Finally, Jarrod just tightened his fist in his pocket and said coldly, "Get some rest."

Nicole let her eyelids fall, pretending not to hear, and gave no reply.

Jarrod took one last look at her before walking out of the room.

The door slammed shut, and only then did Nicole lift her heavy eyelashes, gazing in the direction where Jarrod had exited. Jarrod was too suspicious. His suspicions about the child hadn't faded.

Nicole knew it was only a matter of time before Jarrod found out about Austin. The situation was dire. She needed to Leave with Austin immediately. To slip away without Jarrod noticing, she had to take a drastic action that would completely captivate his attention. This would mean destroying both her reputation and his.

After another week of rest, Nicole requested to be discharged from the hospital.

Concerned about her health, Jarrod sought the opinion of a new doctor, given that the previous one had been dismissive. The new doctor advised more carefully, “It's best for the patient to recuperate at home and make sure she fully recovers."

The new doctor's words didn't emphasize how bad Nicole's condition was.

Jarrod, slightly at ease, inquired, "How much longer does she need to continue her medication?"

The doctor answered, "Three to five months, with monthly check-ups at the hospital."

Jarrod nodded and instructed Alec to pick up the medication before he went back to Nicole's ward.

Nicole had very Little to pack since she hadn't brought much to the hospital. Jarrod had provided everything.

Jarrod stared at Nicole and asked flatly, “Would you prefer to stay at the Oasis or go back to the villa we used last time?"

Feeling a chill at his words, Nicole felt trapped. Both options seemed like prisons to her. After hesitating, she asked, "Can I just stay at my own house?"

Jarrod smiled, a hint of amusement in his expression. "You're still recovering. It would be better if you stayed close by so someone can take care of you," he explained gently.