“I get it. You need a lawyer, correct?" Raegan asked.

"Exactly. I need someone who won't be intimidated by Jarrod and is experienced in custody cases."

“I know just the person." Raegan produced a contact, quickly explaining the situation. The lawyer agreed without hesitation.

Nicole remained concerned, recalling how even the well-known, affluent lawyer she initially hired had eventually backed out.

Raegan reassured her, "I've forwarded your details to him. He'll be ready to assist with the legal process by next week. Don't worry about his qualifications. He was formerly a legal advisor for the Dixon Group but left to study abroad for various reasons. His expertise is beyond doubt."

Knowing that the lawyer was from the Dixon Group's undefeated legal team gave Nicole some comfort. And with Raegan's endorsement, it seemed unlikely he would be swayed by Jarrod.

Nicole gripped Raegan's hand, expressing her gratitude, "“Raegan, I really appreciate your help with this."

Though Mitchel and Jarrod were once close friends, their professional paths had split years ago as they pursued different career paths.

However, in their personal lives, there were still some common threads between them.

When Mitchel's previous legal counsel faced off against Jarrod in court, it was bound to affect their relationship in some way.

"Don't worry about it. Austin's my godson," Raegan said earnestly, smiling at Nicole. "Mitchel values justice over personal relationships. He probably won't mind. He might even try to talk some sense into Jarrod."

Nicole let out a breath of relief. "Thank you, Raegan."

Raegan gave Nicole's hand a comforting squeeze. "Don't stress. I sort of know Jarrod. I definitely wouldn't want Austin in his care."

Soon after, the lawyer Raegan recommended get in touch with Nicole.

“Miss Lawrence, hello, I'm Rhett Bates. Please, just call me Rhett."

Rhett was straightforward and professional, avoiding the usual flattery like other lawyers. He quickly got to the point. “Miss Lawrence, I've reviewed your case thoroughly. Right now, your only advantage is the child's father's mental health issue. Without that, winning this case would be nearly impossible."

Nicole was aware of this. If not, she would have reclaimed her child by now.

"Miss Lawrence, are you certain that Mr. Schultz has been medicated in recent years?" Rhett asked.

"I'm sure of it," Nicole confirmed with a nod.

She remembered seeing Jarrod consistently take medication to manage his manic episodes back when they were together, a condition that had worsened after his parent's deaths.