Jemma reacted with surprise. "You mean Mr. Schultz? You want me to call him?"

"Yes," Nicole affirmed with a deep look. "Call him."

Jemma was well aware of the complex history between Nicole and Jarrod.

She had heard numerous accounts of their relationship. While these stories varied, some elements consistently rang true.

Using these fragments, Jemma had constructed a comprehensive narrative. From Nicole's point of view, her disdain for Jarrod was justifiable.

Yet, Jarrod's insistence on keeping Nicole close spoke to a different kind of affection. Jarrod and Nicole were both too immature to distinguish love from disdain, a difference that Jemma, with her wealth of experience, understood clearly. Fate, it seemed, enjoyed its irony.

Given Jarrod's influence, aligning with him could only benefit Nicole, bringing her security without apparent risk.

And with Jarrod's protection, Jemma felt a reduced burden for Nicole's safety.

Having no children of her own and with Nicole's father gone, Jemma had resolved to look after Nicole as her own. She intended to entrust her entire estate to Nicole's management.

"You made a wise decision," Jemma commented. “Jarrod may be harsh, but his dedication to those he loves is unmatched. He shields his own, regardless of the circumstances."

Nicole remained mostly silent, her mind made up to take a risk.

Today, she was determined to prevent Vicki from becoming Jarrod's wife. As long as she lived and lacked custody of Austin, she would not allow another woman to step into the role of Austin's stepmother.

After all, the wealth of the Schultz family was a dangerously alluring trap. Nicole could not be sure that other women wouldn't succumb to its allure. Interests often dictated actions. Initial agreements might give way to increasing greed over time. Austin could become a pawn, inadvertently inviting peril.

As Nicole moved to depart, she paused, turning back to caution Jemma, "No matter what noises you hear, don't come inside."

Nicole had set up to record the chamber. If Jemma entered, it could jeopardize everything.

“Remember, only call Jarrod if you hear glass shatter. Do not enter, no matter the circumstances," Nicole instructed Jemma firmly.

"Don't worry. I'll follow through," Jemma assured her.

After Nicole disappeared inside, anxiety gripped Jemma. She could hear the muffled sounds of a struggle emanating from the chamber, heightening her concern.

Several times, the urge to intervene overwhelmed Jemma, but she restrained herself, recalling Nicole's directive. She reminded herself to stay calm. Nicole was no fool. She must have had strong reasons for her actions.

Jemma knew she needed to trust Nicole implicitly. After all, Nicole was the daughter of Wesson, a wise man.