When Austin was first brought back by Jarrod, he was as prickly as a hedgehog, letting no one near except his manny. He looked at everyone with distrust in his eyes.

The shift in Austin's demeanor was so remarkable that it would astonish anyone who witnessed it.

Jarrod observed Austin intently but remained silent.

Alec then updated Jarrod on everything Vicki had done at the villa.

Since the nanny who usually cared for Austin, arranged by Nicole, had fallen ill and was still recuperating, Vicki volunteered to look after Austin and thereafter took care of him daily until late. Over time, they seemed to get close.

Two additional nannies were specifically arranged for Austin's care by Jarrod, rendering concerns of Vicki mistreating Austin pointless.

"I can tell that Miss Hampton is quite adept at getting on with kids. The counselor was pleased with Austin's progress following his therapy sessions," Alec commented.

Jarrod cast his eyes down, examining the text messages Vicki had sent him in the last few days. She hadn't sent many, just two each day, inquiring if he was looking after himself. Instead of asking about his whereabouts, she shared photos of Austin, showing Austin playing with clay, reading books, engaging in crafts, and eating meals... It seemed she had invested a great deal of effort.

After a brief reflection, Jarrod sent Vicki a message.

On the other side.

In the car, the sweet demeanor Austin had earlier was gone, replaced by a withdrawn and cold look as he faced Vicki. He appeared slightly scared and uncomfortable. "You had promised me that if I'm behaving, I will get to see my mommy, right?"

Vicki now wore a cold, detached expression, her previous gentle facade gone. She responded in a stern tone, “Austin, you need to try harder. The chance to see your mommy depends on making your father truly happy."

Austin was somewhat deflected. He was naturally introverted and had already stretched his social skills to the max for the earlier performance in Jarrod's presence. Yet, he kept pushing himself, driven by Vicki's assurance that if he could make Jarrod happy, he would get to see his mother.

But adults often masked their feelings well. It was hard for Austin to judge Jarrod's mood. He was too young to grasp the complexities of Jarrod's feelings.

Actually, Jarrod was quite pleased just then, compared with his usual self.

Austin bowed his head, anxiously fidgeting with his fingers. He desperately wanted to see his mother.

Suddenly, Vicki's phone beeped with a message from Jarrod. It was concise and clear. “Get prepared for the wedding."

“No shit!" Vicki erupted into laughter, tears of joy welling in her eyes. She knew it! She had bet on the right horse! Jarrod did care about Austin and making him believe she treated Austin tenderly had made a difference.

Vicki's face softened significantly. She bent down to Austin and whispered, "Your father said you did well earlier. Just a bit more effort and you'll get to see your mommy."

Austin's eyes widened in hopeful surprise. "Really?"