Nicole didn't want Austin to learn the harsh truth. Though she detested Jarrod and wished him harm, their child was innocent.

Austin had been curious about his father for a while, so Nicole let the nanny explain that his parents weren't together but still cared about him a lot.

Nicole didn't want Austin to grow up with the same hatred that consumed her and Jarrod. She didn't wish for Austin to become isolated, peculiar, and self-loathing due to their mutual hatred.

That was why Austin was content living in the villa. He believed Jarrod loved him. But if Austin ever discovered that he was merely a pawn for Jarrod to manipulate Nicole, it would crush him.

“Jarrod, please, let Austin go," Nicole said wearily. She had exhausted most of her energy in the struggle. Now, even small movements caused her great pain. Her complexion was pale, enhancing her delicate appearance.

Jarrod watched her with intense eyes and offered, "You have a choice."

He repeated, "Nicole, you can choose to allow Austin to grow up with his parents. This is the last chance I'm giving you."

Jarrod would overlook Nicole's past with Roscoe if she remained by his side. He'd gladly let Roscoe off the hook if she'd just come back to him. Even though he felt nothing for Austin, he would never let it show. He was heartless and merciless, yet he knew how to play his roles well. He could pretend to be a caring father. All of this hinged on her returning to him. Without it, there would be nothing.

He would never allow Nicole to marry another man and take his child with her. Just the thought made his blood boil, and he wished he could tear that man apart.

"Nicole, I'm serious this time," Jarrod stated icily, as though issuing a final warning. “If you continue to oppose me, you will permanently lose any right to be with Austin. You know I have the means to ensure that."

Jarrod walked away without looking back.

Exhausted, Nicole collapsed to the ground, fists clenched and Lips quivering, yet her eyes blazed with defiance. She'd never allow Austin to live with that devil. She would protect Austin from any psychological harm.

As Nicole left the villa, the nanny was at the window, giving Nicole a discreet signal. This was their covert way of communicating that Austin was okay. This was their typical secret sign. When it was inconvenient for them to meet, the nanny would signal from afar, letting Nicole know Austin was okay.

Nicole felt relieved. With the nanny around, Austin would be safe and sound. She had carefully chosen this nanny, so she didn't worry much about Austin's well-being. The nanny cherished Austin as if he were her own child.

Nicole stayed quiet in the car. When she got out and confirmed no one was tailing her, she still felt uneasy. So, she went to the ladies' room to make a call.

"Hello?" a sweet and gentle voice answered.

Tears filled Nicole's eyes. "Raegan, this is Nicole."

"Nicole, where are you now?" Raegan didn't realize Nicole was calling because she had a new number. But when she heard Nicole's voice, she got excited.

"I'm in Ardlens now," Nicole replied.

"Tell me exactly where you are. I'm coming to you right now," Raegan responded eagerly.