When they arrived in town, Nicole was tempted by the snacks they saw in the different stalls.

But since she had a weak stomach, she couldn't eat too much. Roscoe allowed her to taste a small amount of each food.

She loved mochi. However, it was sticky and hard to digest. So, after allowing her to digest one piece, Roscoe grabbed the rest and gobbled them up.

They had no idea that a pair of deep and cold eyes had been watching their playful tussle over food not far away.

Nicole was unaware of the eyes on her as she stomped her foot at Roscoe in irritation, exclaiming, "Why didn't you just buy your own?"

“Eating yours is tastier," Roscoe replied cheekily, popping another piece into his mouth.

Turning away, Nicole walked off, declaring, “I'm really angry now.”

Deep down, she knew Roscoe was just being mindful of her sensitive stomach. She was merely joking.

Nicole advanced several paces into the dark night, not noticing a man dressed in black blending into the shadows. She accidentally walked into a surprisingly broad chest.

"Sorry.. She said automatically but then stopped, her senses alert to a familiar scent. This unmistakable scent... It was just like Jarrod's!"

Nicole's heart skipped a beat as she raised her eyes to meet a face, cold and expressionless. A metaphorical thunderclap shattered her calm.

"It's been a while," Jarrod's mysteriously calm voice sounded, his features shrouded in the dark, unreadable.

Nicole's scalp prickled, a sensation like ants crawling over her, goosebumps spreading. Her mind screamed, “Run, just run!" Yet, her legs were as heavy as lead, rooted to the spot.

Jarrod effortlessly lifted her into his arms, heading to a secluded area of the building.

Nicole didn't resist, aware that any objection might put Roscoe at risk.

Jarrod wasn't alone. Two muscular men were with him.

Nicole's foremost thought was to protect Roscoe.

From their hidden spot, Nicole saw Roscoe below, anxiously looking for her, his concern evident. Yet, he refrained from shouting her name, wary of the consequences. He approached each passerby, describing her features.

Nicole had never seen Roscoe look so desperate. Tears rolled down her cheeks, her heart wrenching painfully.

"Does that hurt?" Jarrod's cold voice rang out next to her.