Nicole was resolute in seeking justice for Austin and Kamilah. It was crucial to incite Vicki into making a move.

Leaning in, Nicole whispered provocatively to Vicki, "Guess how many rounds Jarrod and I had made out last night?"

Vicki's face flushed with anger. Her fury nearly drove her to violence. "Nicole, have you no dignity? How disgusting can you be?"

Nicole endured her insults calmly, retorting, “We're newlyweds, Vicki. What we do is within our rights, and he adores me. Why shouldn't we enjoy ourselves?"

Continuing her taunt, Nicole added, "And just so you know, he really enjoys it. He's quite skilled. I had a wonderful time."

"You must have lured him in! Why else would he choose you? He's not into all that lovey-dovey stuff!" Vicki retorted hysterically.

Catching Vicki's jealous, contorted expression, Nicole feigned astonishment. “Miss Hampton, you've been with Jarrod for years. He's never..."

Nicole feigned shock. "Has he really never been intimate with you?"

Vicki's face turned ashen as she realized she had inadvertently revealed too much in the heat of the argument.

She had tried every possible way to grow closer to Jarrod, but each attempt left her feeling colder, for he remained aloof and distant.

Any effort to deepen their relationship was met with immediate withdrawal.

Caught off guard by Nicole's sharp words, Vicki couldn't confess that Jarrod had never shown any genuine affection toward her. She responded with a hollow laugh, “Jarrod respects me. He's waiting for marriage, unlike you. You're just someone anyone can have, a mere toy to him. Why do you act so proud?"

"Is that so?" Nicole countered calmly. "If he respects you so much, why aren't you married yet?"

Her remark cut deep, making Vicki feel as though she had been slapped repeatedly, her self-respect in tatters.

With bitterness lacing her tone, Vicki snapped, “That's because you shamelessly ensnared Jarrod! But do you actually think he's yours? He doesn't love you. He only puts up with you because of the child you share. That's your angle, isn't it? Using your kid to trap him. You're despicable!"

Nicole stepped forward, causing Vicki to step back instinctively.

Vicki threatened, saying, "What are you doing? We're at a police station. Lay a finger on me, and I'll have you arrested!"

The memory of Nicole's slap the day before still haunted Vicki.

Though Nicole was slight, her strength was formidable. That strike had left Vicki's lip split, a reminder that lingered painfully for days.

"Go on and hit me. I'd love to see you arrested!" Vicki taunted, confident that Nicole lacked the guts.