As Jemma reached to press the elevator's close button, a foot blocked the door.

Alec spoke with icy disdain. "Who do you think you are, making Mr. Schultz wait? You're not worth his time." He scoffed. “Step out and let us go first."

Jemma's face, previously bright, now clouded over. Having been at the club for many years, she might not be esteemed by the wealthy, but being known as the manager at the club granted her a certain level of respect. She was acquainted with many influential figures who generally treated her courteously. Alec, who had risen from humble origins similar to hers, had no right to demean her in such a manner.

Had the rebuke come from Jarrod, perhaps Jemma would have begrudgingly accepted it. But Alec's scorn was more than she could bear.

Yet, knowing when to step back was a wisdom Jemma had learned well.

Jemma, with her extensive experience, quickly concealed her irritation, her expression morphing into a conciliatory smile.

“Alright, Alec, you're right. I was out of line. We'll leave now."

Turning to Jarrod, Jemma said, "Mr. Schultz, please..."

She was about to exit, but Jarrod's imposing figure blocked the path.

His voice low, Jarrod said, "No rush. Go up first."

Trapped and still supporting Nicole, Jemma had no way out. Since Jarrod had spoken, she saw no need to argue further.

However, Alec's earlier insult still stung, prompting her to retort, "But Alec seems upset. Perhaps we should go down first. It's not that urgent. Cherry can wait another minute."

Jarrod raised an eyebrow. "Don't mind him."

Reassured by Jarrod's response, Jemma allowed herself a small, satisfied smile. She cast a defiant glance at Alec, her smile turning provocative. Her earlier irritation was dissipated a bit.

Alec, catching Jemma's look, clenched his jaw in frustration. This woman was clearly taunting him! He fumed silently.

Despite his anger, Alec had no choice but to follow them into the elevator.

Once the elevator doors closed, the space, now shared with two tall men, felt exceptionally tight, especially with Nicole unsteady on her feet, swaying slightly.

Nicole's cheeks were tinged with an alluring flush as she murmured weakly, “Jemma. I feel. So.. Uncomfortable.. Help me.."

At her words, the tension in the elevator shifted noticeably.

Jarrod maintained his composure, his expression changing only slightly.