Doreen had heard whispers that Jarrod journeyed to the northern territories to rescue Nicole, thereby incurring the wrath of the northerners.

The north was a perilous realm where its denizens lived by the blade, viewing affluent individuals like them as walking treasures.

Jarrod's defiance of these northerners for Nicole's sake was a precarious move. Doreen couldn't shake off the concern that he might face repercussions in the future. It was said that the people from the north were ruthless, and they were unlikely to let such an affront slide.

Originally, Doreen had intended to exact vengeance on Nicole following the wedding, but when Nicole was whisked away by Jarrod's men, Doreen refrained from acting recklessly. While she possessed a fearless demeanor and harbored no apprehension toward her parents or anyone else, she couldn't shake off her trepidation of Jarrod.

When Jarrod was angry, he was truly terrifying, disregarding blood relations or familial affection.

Later, Vicki invited Doreen out, saying Jarrod was indifferent to Nicole due to Nicole's actions at the wedding.

Upon hearing this, Doreen immediately came to teach Nicole a lesson.

Nicole remained impassive, enduring the strike as long as it meant she could see Austin. Turning to Vicki, she questioned, “Did you summon me here today solely to be struck by her?"

Vicki's lips formed a pleased smile. The slap was immensely gratifying. It would have been even more satisfying if she could have done it herself. However, preserving her reputation in Jarrod's eyes was crucial, even in his absence. She needed to act prudently.

Vicki's animosity toward Nicole fueled this scheme, enlisting Doreen, who shared her disdain, to administer the punishment. Additionally, Doreen's involvement minimized complications, ensuring Jarrod wouldn't hold Doreen accountable.

Plus, everyone recognized Doreen's capricious and irrational nature.

Vicki smirked and replied, "What? I didn't summon you here to be harmed by Doreen, and I would never do such a thing. Don't misinterpret the situation."

Nicole, more perceptive than anyone else, understood it was no mistake. Vicki cleverly used Doreen as a pawn to express her anger.

Vicki's cunning was remarkable.

"Exactly!" Doreen chimed in, “Let me make this clear, Vicki has no part in this. I came here to deal with you myself. Who do you think you are, you wretched woman? How dare you cause trouble at my wedding and make things difficult for me? I'll beat you to death!"

Doreen seized Nicole by the hair and slammed her against the table.

Pinning Nicole down firmly, Doreen said, "Today, you'll feel the same humiliation and resentment I endured that day!"

Nicole felt no fear. She was prepared to endure the pain. She fixed her gaze on Vicki and said, "Miss Hampton, I trust you'll keep your promise just as we agreed."

Observing Nicole's miserable state, Vicki smiled and replied, "Of course. I'm the most reliable person you'll meet. I'll keep my word."

Vicki preferred not to be directly involved, so her response was deliberately vague.