Nicole maintained her composure, her voice steady. "You seem unconcerned with Austin's safety. As his mother, it falls to me to take action. Tomorrow, I'll expose the real faces of everyone in your precious circle to the public."

Her tone was resolute, convincing Jarrod that she might indeed possess a backup. His expression turned grave. He pressed, “And then?"

Nicole hesitated. She was at a loss, not quite grasping his point.

Jarrod explained, “Once this is out in the open, Doreen won't have to shoulder the blame. My sister will cover for her. At worst, Doreen might need to spend some time abroad to let things settle, but her prospects won't be tarnished at all. As for Vicki and Lowe, backed by the Hamptons, I doubt you could cause them any real trouble. And suppose you do manage to get this scandal trending through money or connections, what then?"

Jarrod set his wine glass down, his face a mask of detached calm.

"Their situations are similar to Doreen's. None of this will touch them."

His tone grew icy. "Nicole, don't be so naive. I might choose not to marry Vicki, but that doesn't stop me from marrying someone else. Should I then screen whether they're suitable for Austin?"

Nicole had never considered Jarrod's perspective. Yet, it did have a point. The video in her possession might stop Vicki from becoming Jarrod's wife. But what about other women who would become Jarrod's fiancée? How could she judge if they were fit or unfit?

As long as Jarrod held onto Austin's custody, these looming threats would remain inevitable.

For a moment, Nicole was bewildered, staring into Jarrod's profound eyes, puzzled by his thoughts. She inquired pointedly, "What do you want from me to secure Austin's custody?"

Nicole would only be at ease when Austin was in her care. She had amassed just enough wealth for Austin that, while not lavish, was significantly better than the average, providing a stable foundation.

With Nicole's money, Austin was free to pursue his passions. Should he take an interest in business, the trust fund could serve as his initial investment, potentially launching him into success under his management.

Nicole was determined to look after Austin until he reached adulthood, regardless of her own health challenges. If necessary, she would appoint a trustworthy guardian to ensure his well-being until then.

Although Jarrod was wealthy, his principles and the inherent risks associated with his lifestyle did not promise a secure environment for Austin. As a mother, she could not stand by and watch her child be exposed to such hazards.

Thus, Nicole reiterated, “I'm insisting on taking custody of Austin. His staying with you does him no good."

Jarrod's face remained impassive, his inner turmoil masked by a serene exterior. He had watched the recording, stunned by Vicki's and Doreen's merciless attack on Nicole.

He was well aware that Nicole's endurance was for Austin's sake. Yet, the easiest solution was within reach for Nicole. Just turning to him for help would do. She simply refused to consider it. Could he be that bad in her eyes?

Regaining his calm, Jarrod responded indifferently, “Are you certain you want to fight for custody of Austin?"

Nicole held her breath, fully aware of the gravity of her decision.

In all honesty, she wanted to Austin's custody because this was the only way she could ensure that Austin would be safe and sound.