Nicole was overwhelmed. Roscoe could have achieved more, but because of her, he was reduced to such a sad state.

Right then, a driver approached, someone from the neighborhood whom Roscoe had arranged in advance.

Once the car was on the move, a partition went up. This partition was specially designed to block any sounds and prevent them from being spotted in the back seat.

Nicole panicked and grabbed Roscoe's hand. "Roscoe, drop me off. I can't be seen with you. I'll only cause you more trouble."

Nicole was concerned about Roscoe. If Jarrod, who was always out for revenge, discovered that Roscoe and her had fled together, he would certainly unleash a wave of retaliation upon catching them. Roscoe was already beaten to this point and simply couldn't accept another blow.

Nicole managed to persuade Roscoe, "Roscoe, please go back home. Stop getting mixed up with me. I don't want to be in your debt anymore."

"I'm not going back," Roscoe replied, gently wiping away her tears with his sleeve. "Nicole, my home is wherever you are."

"No, no!" Nicole protested urgently. "Don't fret over me. I didn't run off without a plan. I'll drop a bombshell on several social media platforms at 2:30 in the morning. After that, Jarrod will be too busy to chase after me."

Nicole implemented a plan that would destroy herself as well as Jarrod.

"Nicole." Roscoe gazed at her with unyielding determination in his eyes. “I've been steadfast for over a decade. Do you really think you can sway me now?"

Nicole was at a loss for words, knowing Roscoe's resolve better than anyone.

A spark lit up Roscoe's eyes as he said softly, "Nicole, I've never really had a place to call home. It's only with you that I find a ‘home’."

He reached out and tightly held her slender fingers, saying firmly, “Even if you see me as nothing more than a younger brother for the rest of your life, I'm ready to do anything for you."

Nicole suddenly felt weaker yet somehow braver in facing life. It was difficult to pinpoint what exactly she was feeling at that moment.

Maybe it was a blend of reliance and sympathy, or perhaps her feelings were transforming significantly.

Nicole no longer wanted to dwell on her mixed feelings. Not persuading Roscoe anymore, she quietly placed her hand in his. Roscoe was someone she could always rely on.

The car sped along, entering South Bank Road.

Nicole looked up through the open sunroof at the starry sky, feeling a surreal sensation. "Did we really run out?" she asked.

“Yes, we did," Roscoe answered.

"How did you know I'd leave tonight?" Nicole inquired.