Jarrod voiced no objections. Unless urgent, the public relations department typically allotted an appropriate timeframe.

A hint of dissatisfaction lingered in Alec's tone. "Mr. Schultz, time is of the essence. Severing our collaboration with the Hampton family while announcing this information will incur losses."

Jarrod arched an eyebrow. “Are you suggesting we wait until the originally scheduled wedding day to divulge?"

Truly, the impending wedding date known to the public left Little room for delay. If they postponed the announcement any further, time would swiftly elapse.

Alec was unaware of recent events in the country over the past two days, leaving him puzzled as to why Jarrod was rushing to cancel the engagement. He speculated that something significant must have occurred.

Before Alec could inquire, Jarrod delivered a weighty revelation.

“Vicki has been arrested."

Jarrod then commanded, "Proceed to the police station to ascertain the Hampton family's response, and then return with a report."

Alec was stunned. What? Merely absent for a few days, and Vicki was already in custody. No wonder Jarrod sought to annul the engagement swiftly.

Alec refrained from further inquiries, confident he could obtain precise information upon his visit to the police station.

Jarrod issued a directive. "I've heard of an esteemed doctor residing in seclusion at South Mountain Hospital after retirement. Seek means to extend an invitation to him for Mrs. Schultz's medical care."

Mrs. Schultz? Alec's confusion surfaced. "Mr. Schultz, a new Mrs. Schultz?"

"It's Nicole. We've registered our marriage," Jarrod stated succinctly.

Alec was silent for a long moment, his mind reeling as if on the brink of madness. How had these two ended up married...

After a Lengthy pause, Alec finally voiced his frustration, unable to hold back his anger, "Sir, what are you thinking? You know that woman is out to harm you, yet you're keeping her close?"

Alec was utterly baffled. It seemed to him that Jarrod's judgment needed serious questioning, perhaps even a medical evaluation.

"He really seems unwell, like he needs treatment," Alec said to himself grimly.

"Don't worry about it. Just follow my orders," Jarrod commanded sharply.

Alec had earned the right to question Jarrod, having stood by Jarrod through thick and thin, even facing death together. Otherwise, he knew well enough that such questioning would normally be off-limits.

“Sir...” Alec started, hoping to remind Jarrod of their early struggles, and the peace they had worked so hard to achieve.