Jarrod continued his career quietly, acting unaffected by Nicole's disappearance.

However, his efforts to expand the business internationally hinted that Jarrod was still searching for Nicole, albeit more cautiously.

Fortunately, Jarrod centered the search for Nicole abroad, just as Nicole and Roscoe had predicted and desired. This was the reason they had kept Austin away and not brought him to the village. Austin was safe Living with the nanny.

Nicole made video calls every Wednesday to check on Austin, who spoke with Roscoe occasionally.

Despite missing Austin terribly, Nicole limited her video calls with him.

Nicole and Roscoe would not risk bringing Austin to the village until they were certain it was safe. After six months of vigilant observation, they deemed the village secure and secluded enough for their needs.

They planned to bring Austin to the village in the spring. Given his delicate health, the harsh mountain winters were not suitable for him.

They envisioned spending the next few years with Austin, living in the village during spring, summer, and fall, and only moving him to a warmer location during winter.

With Austin in the nanny's care, they felt at ease. Hopefully, in a few years, when Jarrod might lower his guard, they could all live together.

Financially, they were secure.

Nicole's investments, managed under Raegan's name, sufficiently covered Austin's medical bills.

Roscoe had secretly bought several properties. Now, all they needed to do was wait quietly in their secluded mountain retreat for a suitable match for Austin.

Nicole and Roscoe only regretted missing Raegan's wedding, though she sent them a live stream of the event.

Nicole had been cautious, waiting two months in the village before reaching out to Raegan, aware that Mitchel and Jarrod were acquaintances. She trusted Raegan's discretion, which allowed her to trust Mitchel.

However, knowing Jarrod's cunning nature, Nicole feared that Mitchel might inadvertently disclose something in Jarrod's presence, so she advised Raegan to keep their situation confidential, even from Mitchel.

At Raegan's wedding, which Jarrod couldn't attend because of his scandal, the ceremony was grand, and both Raegan and Mitchel Looked amazing.

Raegan shared generously, and Nicole was touched by Mitchel's sincerity, thrilled that Raegan had found happiness.

Yet, to be cautious, Raegan and Nicole decided to limit their communication, opting to check in just once a year to ensure each other's safety and well-being.

The fish thrashing in the basin abruptly pulled Nicole back to the present. She noticed Roscoe cleaning jujubes and stood up, offering, “Let me take care of the fish."

“Stay put. Don't bother," Roscoe insisted. "I've got this."