To Alec, instead of distancing himself from a potential threat, Jarrod was now, metaphorically, sleeping with a time bomb.

"Enough," Jarrod cut him off. "Nicole is my wife now. All resources of the Schultz Group must support her unconditionally. Also, I will not tolerate anyone mistreating her. Do you understand?"

Alec was at a loss for words. He couldn't understand. He couldn't grasp why Jarrod would commit so completely to a woman known for her ruthless and calculating nature. But he was left with no choice. He had to comply with Jarrod's directive and ensure his safety simultaneously.

"I understand." Alec nodded.

"Proceed." Jarrod dismissed him.

After leaving, Alec's frustration manifested in his actions. He reprimanded the slackers among the staff, signaling to everyone at the company that it was best not to cross him today.

Meanwhile, Nicole had rested briefly and decided to venture out.

She headed to the police station to speak with the nanny, who was now a key figure in proving Vicki's involvement. Nicole knew that Vicki would never confess to any wrongdoing.

On her way, Nicole encountered the short-haired female police officer who had spoken so assertively at the gate the other day.

The officer recognized Nicole and greeted her politely, "Miss Lawrence."

Nicole was surprised. "You know me?"

"Yes, I saw your photo in a magazine covering the Lawrence Group's annual meeting," the officer replied.

The mention of the Lawrence Group's annual meeting felt surreal for Nicole. It had been six years since her father had passed away. The name “Lawrence Group" now seemed so distant...

“I apologize for not greeting you properly yesterday while on duty," the short-haired female police officer added.

"It's fine. I didn't expect you to remember the Lawrence Group," Nicole said.

"I should remember. I was a beneficiary of the Lawrence Group's Hope Project," the female police officer remarked.

Nicole wasn't surprised. Her father had been dedicated to helping children through the Hope Project, and many of these children had grown to make significant contributions in various fields.

The officer introduced herself as Ethel Castro. She was relatively new to the force, filled with enthusiasm and ambition for her job.

After exchanging pleasantries, Ethel got to the point.

"It's quite a coincidence you're here. I've been wanting to discuss something about your father's case with you," Ethel stated.