The ascent from the mountain's base to its midsection was considerable, compounded by Nicole's frail physical state. The relentless midday sun intensified her fatigue, each step became increasingly arduous and draining.

No soul traversed this route toward the mansion. Even the butler had a chauffeured conveyance arranged, sparing none the necessity of pedestrian travel.

Nicole pressed on for over forty minutes before arriving at Jarrod's estate.

The mansion's entrance stood firmly shut, prompting Nicole to approach and rap on its imposing door.

Emerging from within, a vigilant security guard inquired, "Whom do you seek?"

Providing the nanny's name, Nicole was met with a perplexed frown as the guard rebutted, "No such individual resides here."

Even if such a person existed, servants were not typically recognized by the security. They only acknowledged the masters of the household and individuals of significance.

Undeterred, Nicole asserted, "I am the biological mother of the young master here, and I demand to see him."

The security guards exchanged glances. While acknowledging Austin's presence, they remained oblivious to any mention of his biological mother.

Furthermore, Vicki stood as the sole visitor available to attend to Austin. Suddenly, this woman emerged, claiming to be his biological mother. How could they readily accept her assertion and grant her entry?

Additionally, even if she were indeed Austin's biological mother, they still couldn't permit her entry. As they hadn't received instructions from Jarrod, they were unable to grant her access.

They gestured firmly, stating, "Madam, if indeed you are the young master's mother, you can contact Mr. Schultz to arrange for security clearance. We're simply fulfilling our duties, endeavoring not to inconvenience you."

The security guards of the mansion were cunning. Having encountered numerous purported VIPs of little significance, they refrained from condescension. Instead, they maintained a consistently polite demeanor toward all individuals. They didn't want to offend Austin's biological mother if Nicole was telling the truth. They dared not exhibit any discourtesy toward her. Even if she wasn't, exhibiting politeness remained a virtue. However, admission for her was only contingent upon them obtaining directions.

Nicole considered the guard's stance accurate. In the absence of Jarrod's directives, access to the estate was prohibited. She retrieved her phone, pondered briefly, and then dialed Jarrod's number.

Unexpectedly, it was Alec who answered the call.

The recent conflict over the wedding still lingered, and Alec's response to Nicole was far from courteous. Instead, his tone carried a hint of sarcasm. "Miss Lawrence, what prompts you to contact Mr. Schultz? It's quite rare. What? You got good news?"

Nicole disregarded his ironic tone and inquired straightforwardly, “Is Jarrod available?"

“He's currently engaged in a meeting." Before Nicole could interject, Alec added, "He is addressing the aftermath of your previous blunder.

Miss Lawrence, your conduct at Roscoe's wedding was rather startling.

I'm uncertain what prompted Mr. Schultz to retrieve you from the wedding venue, but as a consequence, the collaboration with the Watts family has unraveled.