Nicole reflected on the past and suddenly it clicked. There had been one instance. Jarrod had behaved oddly that day, insisting she dress provocatively and accompany him to the Kingbel Club to mingle with high-profile guests. It was a singular, demeaning experience, meant only to belittle her. The memory of that night still stung.

Nicole admitted reluctantly, "Yes, there was that one time at Kingbel Club, but it was just that once, and I wasn't really mingling with the guests."

Vicki's displeasure was evident upon hearing this. It seemed Jarrod harbored special feelings for Nicole, tolerating a family feud to keep Nicole close. Vicki deduced that Jarrod's decision to have Nicole at the event was driven by anger.

Jealousy curdled in Vicki's heart. Dropping all pretense, she said sharply, “Since you've done it before, that's perfect. My uncle owns Kingbel Club, and they're short-staffed. I could get you a job there."

Nicole was shocked, her mind reeling. “What are you suggesting?"

"I mean for you to work as a hostess. You'll entertain guests and have conversations. It's straightforward, and it pays," Vicki clarified.

The term “hostess" in that context was a polite way of saying prostitute. While it stopped short of sleeping with clients, all other interactions were expected, and for the right price, even more could be negotiated.

Nicole turned pale. "I can't handle alcohol, and I won't work in such a place."

Vicki Laughed, covering her mouth with her hand. "You don't think I'm begging you to accept the job, do you?"

Nicole knew better. Vicki's true aim was to degrade her. Yet, how could she agree to such a demand? She responded firmly, "Miss Hampton, I can't accept that. If you have other terms, we can discuss them."

"And if I don't?" Vicki's tone turned cold.

“If you want Austin to stay healthy, you'd better take the job today. Otherwise, I can't assure his well-being..." Vicki threatened openly.

Fury surged through Nicole, her fists clenching as she trembled.

“Miss Hampton, remember who Austin is. He is Jarrod's son."

Nicole questioned Vicki, "Do you really think Jarrod will tolerate your actions?"

Regardless, Jarrod was Austin's father. Nicole couldn't believe he would be so cruel as to disregard the life of his own son. To ignore the well-being of his child seemed unimaginable. Even if Jarrod was using Austin merely as a bargaining chip to intimidate her, he ought to realize that any harm to Austin would drive her to fight him relentlessly.

"Ha-ha. Hearing her words, Vicki's laughter grew louder and more dramatic. "Miss Lawrence, you're quite naive. Your son is frail. A mere fever or the wrong meal could end his life. Would I really need to intervene physically?”

Vicki intended to crush Nicole's naivety with her words. Smiling, she added, "Do you honestly believe Jarrod would confront me over something so trivial?"

Vicki's implications were crystal clear. She had numerous ways to hurt Austin. Even if Jarrod didn't entrust Austin to her directly, having Austin near Jarrod was opportunity enough for her. She was correct. Austin's health was fragile and couldn't endure any stress.

Minimal interference could prove fatal.