Vicki yearned to inquire if Jarrod was planning to meet Nicole, but she refrained from voicing this question. Uttering too much could become bothersome, and as she maintained her silence anything related to Nicole, she felt she retained her position as Jarrod's fiancée, still eligible to become his spouse. If matters were to become unsettled, it wouldn't bode well for her.

Jarrod's response was devoid of emotion. "I have an urgent matter to attend to. I'll have it next time."

He pulled his arm away, his demeanor slightly impatient with Vicki's grasp.

Vicki wisely released him, maintaining a smile as she remarked, “Then tend to what you must. Remember to eat, and I'll prepare soup for you once more."

Dayton glanced at her, her countenance seemingly exuding joy, and furrowed his brow slightly but remained silent.

Seemingly oblivious to Jarrod's discomfort, Vicki affectionately retrieved his coat and draped it over his shoulders.

Observing him make his way to the door, Vicki called out once more, "Jarrod..."

Jarrod halted, casting a lingering glance back at Vicki.

With a serene smile, Vicki addressed him thoughtfully, “It's crucial to try on the wedding attire well in advance. If you're tied up, I can handle it solo."

Jarrod's gaze narrowed slightly as he studied Vicki's expression intently. She spoke graciously, her face remaining radiant, seemingly devoid of any hint of grievances.

Agreeing with a nod, Jarrod replied, “I'm buried in work. Set it up whenever suits you."

"Alright, take care then."

As Jarrod turned to walk away, Vicki watched him silently, her countenance soft and her smile tender, portraying the image of a devoted fiancée.

Only after he vanished from sight did the warmth in Vicki's smile gradually fade.

“Crash!" In a sudden outburst, she swept the dishes off the table, sending them crashing to the floor.

Aware that Jarrod had left her for Nicole again, anger simmered within Vicki, yet she compelled herself to suppress her emotions.

Vicki refrained from causing a scene, aware she was still under evaluation. Despite the court's ruling, Jarrod hadn't entrusted her with Austin's care yet. He didn't have enough faith in her to entrust her with his child.

Jarrod truly cherished Austin. And so did Nicole. Realizing she had identified their Achilles' heel, Vicki's smile crept back onto her face.

Instead of succumbing to daily anxieties, fearing she couldn't marry Jarrod with the fear of another twist of fate, she resolved to leverage their Achilles' heel, no longer living in fear.

Vicki summoned the servants to clean up the mess. Before retiring for the night, she instructed the butler to procure the freshest, finest ingredients tomorrow for a soup she intended to prepare for Jarrod.