Perhaps it was the nurse's kind behavior that reminded Nicole of her mother, she looked at the nurse with soft eyes and murmured an agreeable “okay.”

Just then, the other nurse entered the room. The compassionate nurse quickly withdrew her hand from Nicole's and reverted to a professional detachment, attending to her duties.

Nicole lay back, her gaze fixed on the ceiling, counting the days and pondering when Jarrod would act next. What methods would he use this time... It seemed like there wasn't much left binding her to him...

At the Hampton family residence. Vicki still carried a strong smell of blood. Her wrists had been treated by the family doctor.

She had recently attempted to slit her wrists.

Luckily, the attempt was discovered promptly, and there was no threat to her life.

It wasn't deemed appropriate for her to go to the hospital, as such matters should remain out of the public eye.

Vicki's wedding with Jarrod was getting closer. If the media caught wind of it, there would definitely be a lot of speculation. This would undoubtedly impact both families.

Wayne summoned Jarrod over to ask about what had transpired. He had tried to get information from Vicki, but she remained silent.

Jarrod paused before responding, “I'll handle it."

Wayne stopped him with a reminder. "Jarrod, do you still remember the promise you made to me?"

Observing Jarrod's silence, Wayne spoke up. "I was initially hesitant about Vicki marrying you because, frankly, you don't love her. She insisted so persistently that I eventually had no choice but to give in. Jarrod, remember, the Hampton family has treated you well. When no one else was willing to take a chance on you, we did. Vicki is the child of the woman I love the most, so I've always poured her with affection. Vicki resembles her mother in appearance and personality. Both prioritize emotions above all else, which is why I only asked for one promise from you back then."

With a meaningful look, Wayne added, "You must not do anything wrong."

Jarrod responded solemnly, "Don't worry. I haven't forgotten."

"That's good to hear." Wayne patted Jarrod on the shoulder, continuing, “A man in your position will inevitably meet many women in social circles. Vicki's mother used to create quite a fuss about it, but she was easy to calm. Just make a little effort, and spoil her a bit. As long as you don't bring any of them home, having a few favorites on the side is manageable."

Wayne knew what he was talking about. He hadn't been faithful to just one woman. Understanding the nature of men, he knew there would always be memorable ones. Effort was necessary, but the status of the legal wife must remain undisturbed.

Wayne remembered how Vicki's mother would fuss, yet he never allowed her to overshadow his legal wife. The same rule applied here.

Additionally, Vicki was raised directly under Bess, Wayne's legal wife. With Wayne's traditional views, he believed that adhering to certain protocols solidified one's legitimate place in the Hampton family.

Jarrod nodded and spoke firmly. "The wedding will go on as planned, but I need a commitment from you."

Wayne stroked his beard and responded firmly, "Go ahead."