At this critical moment, Nicole couldn't let Derek kill Jarrod. If Jarrod were incapacitated or worse, she knew she would be Derek's next target. A man blinded by rage wouldn't hesitate to take one life or two. It would all be the same. And in her current vulnerable state, she was no match for a deranged man.

Nicole's shout brought Jarrod back to a semblance of awareness, but it was already too late. The rock Derek hurled smashed against Jarrod's face.

Blood immediately started streaming down Jarrod's handsome features.

Yet, despite his face being covered in blood, he stood unflinchingly, his expression turning even more ominous.

Derek, realizing that his attempt with the rock had little effect and only made Jarrod appear more menacing, felt a wave of fear wash over him. How could someone not react to a rock to the head but instead look even more daunting?