With that declaration, Nicole departed without a backward glance.

Alec was shocked, murmuring to himself, "She's utterly heartless and unyielding!"

Fuming with frustration, Alec found himself helpless to act. After all, Jarrod was an incurable romantic, his heart fixating on Nicole.

Alec thudded his head against the wall thrice in an attempt to quell his agitation. He cautioned himself against succumbing to love, lest he become akin to Jarrod, susceptible to vulnerability.

Despite Jarrod's reluctance to admit it, Alec could tell the truth staring Jarrod in the face that Jarrod fell in love with Nicole hopelessly!

After departing from the hospital, Nicole chose to return directly home, foregoing any other destinations. She cared little for anything else, surrendering herself to sleep without reservation.

She needed to devise a plan to rescue Roscoe without plunging recklessly into danger. It was evident that Miguel aimed to eliminate anyone hindering his agenda.

Roscoe's unwavering support over the years was invaluable and unforgettable for Nicole. Those memories ran deep. Without Roscoe's assistance, she might have perished long ago, and Austin might never have existed.

Yet, living as a human being entailed confronting not just Life's challenges but also the emotional scars that proved stubborn to erase.

That sudden heartache.

Fortunately, there was a steadfast and emotionally stable man like Roscoe who had been by Nicole's side throughout it all. With his support, she found the strength to persevere, living one year after another.

She willed herself to drift into sleep, pushing aside all thoughts.

Surely, she would find a solution! There must be a way!

Jarrod opened his eyes to a new day but remained confined to his bed, his complexion ashen from blood loss, and his lips turned pale.

Alec entered and noticed Jarrod gazing vacantly at the door. This was uncommon. Jarrod was usually attentive.

A twinge of sadness struck Alec. Eager not to let Jarrod down, he awkwardly shared, “Miss Lawrence was here at the hospital yesterday. She left after the doctor assured her you were stable. She seemed exhausted, probably went home to sleep."

Alec's words were crafted half-truths. He spoke the truth but rearranged the sequence. His intention was simple, to lift Jarrod's spirits, as Jarrod's somber mood was unsettling.

Alec continued, "Sir, Miss Lawrence appreciates you for saving her. Back on that mountain road, she really struggled to pull you up. I don't think she despises you that much."

“That's enough. Get out."

Jarrod preferred solitude. He wasn't easily fooled. He understood Nicole's feelings toward him all too well. No matter how many times he rescued her, it seemed unlikely to change her heart. She loathed him, perhaps enough to wish him ill.