Jarrod's countenance was contemplative, his gaze reflected profound thought as he absorbed Vicki's words. Over the years, Vicki had never purposefully harmed anyone. Had it not been for the video of her mercilessly attacking Nicole, her plea might have swayed him.

However, in the footage, Vicki whispered into Nicole's ear, "I intend to harm Austin." Her words were drowned by the clamor of their surroundings.

Upon scrutinizing Vicki's lip movements, Jarrod realized Nicole's allegations were true. Vicki had indeed threatened to take Austin's life, and Vicki's eyes betrayed her intention as she struck Nicole.

Jarrod couldn't help but be amazed by the unpredictability of people.

The Vicki he knew bore no resemblance to the malevolent figure standing before him.

Jarrod's silence was construed by Nicole as an attempt to shield Vicki. She promptly intervened, "Vicki, reserve your account for the authorities."

Vicki's fury erupted. Who was this woman to interrogate her? Nicole held no jurisdiction!

To Vicki, Jarrod's silence seemed indicative of a softening stance toward her. Capitalizing on the moment, she assumed a pitiful demeanor, tearfully expressing, “Miss Lawrence, I hold no animosity toward you. I get it. You cannot simply idly stand by as I prepare to wed Jarrod, driven by envy and a desire to harm me. My affection for Austin has always been sincere. Yet now, he maligns me, alleging I harbor intentions to harm him. Who will acknowledge the injustice I endure?"

Pausing for dramatic effect, Vicki pressed on, “I understand your need to protect your son. However, if you persist in mistreating me, my father will not condone it."

Vicki invoked Wayne's name, confident in the widespread knowledge that Jarrod would never disregard Wayne's influential support.

Indeed, when Jarrod's position was precarious, it was the Hampton family's backing that had secured his role at Ardlens. Vicki believed this single fact would negate any suspicion of wrongdoing on Jarrod's part.

"Indeed, you hold no malice, and in fact, you were quite eager concerning me," Nicole remarked.

Vicki's eyes widened in astonishment. She struggled to comprehend Nicole's implication.

Nicole elucidated deliberately, “Weren't you eager to introduce me to your brother to become his mistress?"

"What nonsense are you talking about?" Vicki retorted, her voice gradually fading as a wave of guilt engulfed her.

"What nonsense?" Nicole echoed. "Didn't you promise that if I agreed, you'd arrange for me to meet Austin in three months?"

The moment those words escaped Nicole's lips, Jarrod's demeanor turned frigid.

Observing his icy expression, Vicki's heart skipped a beat. She cursed silently. Nicole was just like her detested son, crafting words filled with snares. She dared not respond rashly.

With clenched teeth, Vicki countered, "I never made such statements. Do not attempt to tarnish my reputation with such baseless allegations."

Nicole emitted a sharp, disdainful Laugh.