The footsteps were unmistakably familiar. Nicole turned and was met with the sight of Jarrod, clad in a crisp suit and polished leather shoes.

Nicole hadn't seen Jarrod since their last encounter at the hospital.

Following that meeting, when Nicole had gone to settle the medical bills, Alec had made it clear that Jarrod would sever all ties with her and cease managing any of her affairs. Regarding their child, Jarrod was adamant about not relenting and forbade her from any visitation.

Given their stark differences in status, if Jarrod chose to vanish from Nicole's life, he could indeed make it happen.

Nicole's attempts to contact the nanny had failed, likely because Jarrod had restricted her phone access.

Nicole was left in the dark about Austin's condition, relying solely on snippets of information from Vicki. She persevered, working tirelessly at the club to gather information and to lower Vicki's guard.

At that moment, Jarrod's eyes met Nicole's, his look intense and unreadable.

Doreen, visibly thrilled, stood up. “Jarrod, you're here..."

"Mm," Jarrod answered indifferently.

“Please, take a seat," Doreen urged, her enthusiasm undimmed as she welcomed the woman behind him. “Vicki.”

Only then did Nicole realize that Jarrod and Vicki had arrived together.

Naturally, as Doreen's uncle, Jarrod's presence at Doreen's birthday celebration was expected.

Vicki, dressed in a light pink gown that accentuated her elegance and grace, seemed taken aback to see Nicole. She covered her mouth in surprise, exclaiming, "Miss Lawrence, why are you here?"

Nicole reflected on how Vicki's acting skills had improved significantly as she had become adept at masking her true feelings.

“I'm working here," Nicole responded succinctly.

“Working?” Vicki appeared surprised. "Miss Lawrence, are you in need of money? I recall you were a high achiever. How did you end up working here?"

“Every profession has its value. I actually find it quite fulfilling here," Nicole replied, maintaining her composure.

Vicki's tone softened. "Miss Lawrence, are you facing some difficulties?"

"No." Nicole smiled as she spoke, her gaze laced with a hint of mockery.

Impatient, Doreen interjected sharply, "Vicki, you know, some people are just naturally lowly. They revel in it, serving in lowly positions. Don't waste your breath trying to uplift them. They're content here, serving a multitude of men without ever repeating."