Nicole's spirits lifted considerably. After all, she could rely on a trustworthy friend. For a moment, she yearned to share all her troubles and complaints with Raegan, just like in old times.

Just then, a child's voice chirped from the other end, “Mommy... Mommy..."

Raegan responded softly, “Baby, go play with the nanny for a bit. I'm talking to a dear friend right now. I'll join you soon, okay?"

"Oh..." the little one on the line babbled adorably, not yet fluent in speech.

Nicole realized that Raegan had two babies who were still breastfeeding. This must be one of them. She felt glad for her best friend, who was living a happy life.

Nicole bit back on her own grievances. Her troubles and misfortunes were hers to bear, and Raegan couldn't resolve them.

Jarrod was a cunning man who covered his tracks well, and he was a friend of Mitchel's. Nicole didn't want to put Raegan in an awkward position. She said, "Raegan, I still have some things to sort out. Let's catch up on old times later. Right now, I need your help."

Raegan sounded slightly disappointed but quickly recovered. "What do you need?"

"I need to find a reliable testing laboratory. I want to have some medication tested."

“Okay, I'll ask my husband to handle it. He knows people in that field." Raegan agreed immediately, not even questioning the specifics of Nicole's request. It was the deepest trust between close friends, without needing any words.

"I'll make sure my husband keeps it confidential," Raegan added. She understood the situation between Nicole and Jarrod. Since Mitchel was Jarrod's friend, she had to stay away from Jarrod, as Nicole had requested.

Since marrying, Mitchel has scaled back his social life. He rarely attended gatherings unless necessary. Each evening, he carried home his unfinished office work, determined to be a great father. He'd tuck the twins in and share bedtime stories with Janey. After the children were asleep, he'd go to his study and work until midnight.

Raegan often felt guilty seeing him so worn, but Mitchel would reassure her with a hug, saying he was happy. No matter what he accomplished, they would always be happy with him.

On the phone, Nicole expressed her gratitude, “Thank you, Raegan."

"Don't mention it. When you're done with work, I'll introduce you to my kids. You haven't met them yet, and Janey always asks about you."

"Sure, I will."

After ending the call, Nicole felt a significant weight lift off her shoulders. There was no need for lengthy conversations. She and Raegan understood each other well.

Nicole had a pill to analyze its content. Just then, she slyly tucked it into her palm while Jarrod wasn't looking. If the analysis confirmed that the pill's contents matched what was in Jarrod's system, it would strengthen her case for Austin's custody.

Jarrod said he offered her one final chance, but she wasn't going to give him one. If she stumbled, she'd rise once more. She was determined not to give up without a fight!

Meanwhile, at Serenity Villas.