As the car pulled up, they hurried out to meet Jarrod. Seeing Jarrod half-dragging, half-carrying Nicole, the housekeeper stepped forward to help, but Nicole resisted, flinching away from both Jarrod and any other approaching hands.

Nicole's clouded mind kept her constantly alert around anyone, a behavior ingrained from a life filled with constant upheaval. She resisted Jarrod, though his familiar scent provided a modicum of comfort compared to the strangers around her.

Jarrod observed her reluctance to interact with the staff and felt a slight uplift in his mood. A faint smile appeared at the corner of his lips as he calmly said, "No need."

The housekeeper sensed Nicole was a special one to Jarrod when noting how Nicole clung to Jarrod, attempting to fend off anyone else's touch.

For one, no other woman had ever been brought to this villa by Jarrod.

Additionally, Jarrod was not known for his patience with women. Yet, here he was, displaying an uncharacteristic tolerance.

Concluding that Nicole must hold some special significance to Jarrod, the housekeeper adjusted her approach to better accommodate Nicole.

Jarrod gently placed Nicole on the couch, and the doctor immediately began to assess her condition. After a brief examination, he reported, "Mr. Schultz, it appears she has ingested a mild hallucinogen, nothing highly toxic. It should be manageable.”

“Then manage it," Jarrod responded tersely.

The doctor nodded. “Well, it's not a serious condition. She could simply sleep it off with someone to ensure her safety and comfort."

The doctor, aware of Jarrod's usual reluctance to bring women home, saw an opportunity to suggest a more personal care approach. He was merely presenting the facts, leaving the decision up to Jarrod.

Indeed, the substance Nicole had consumed was likely a mild emotional enhancer, rather than a dangerous drug.

Jarrod inquired, “Are there any other alternatives?"

Clearly, Jarrod was not enthused by the doctor's suggestion. The doctor hesitated, sensing he might have misjudged the situation. But Jarrod's expression was telling. It was that of a man considering his options for a woman in his care.

The doctor, understanding the subtext, offered an alternative. "Or we could administer a sedative via injection. How would you like to proceed?"

"Will there be any side effects?" Jarrod asked, his concern evident.

The doctor reassured him quickly, "No, not at all. I'll use the mildest sedative we have."

With a thoughtful look at Nicole, Jarrod didn't deliberate long.

"Give her the injection," he decided.

The doctor nodded and retrieved the necessary tools from his medical kit.