She nestled into his embrace, his jacket enveloping her, conveniently concealing his erection. This... This surprisingly worked.

Nicole resolved to comply. She had myriad tasks ahead and sought to avoid needlessly antagonizing him.

Jarrod transported her into the house and gently placed her onto the bed.

Nicole alighted with a gentle thud, sinking into the sumptuous mattress. “What is the meaning of this?" she exclaimed, taken aback.

Jarrod leaned closer. “Advancing the previous activities."

Nicole resisted, her voice strained. “You promised you wouldn't do this."

Jarrod murmured against her neck, his voice muffled, "I said not in the car. I never mentioned avoiding it at home," His voice had turned hoarse.

And then, all words dissipated in the rhythm of the bed.

Exhausted, Nicole drifted into immediate sleep.

Jarrod cradled her tenderly as he attended to her, ensuring her comfort in bed.

Nicole was undeniably fatigued. Today, returning Vicki to where she belonged had granted Nicole some solace.

The emotional strain, coupled with Jarrod's desire in her, had completely depleted Nicole.

Jarrod tenderly brushed Nicole's hair aside and whispered, "Feel free to rely on me as much as you need, as long as you're content."

Nicole slept until the following day dawned. At some juncture, she vaguely sensed a maid rousing her for a meal, yet she scarcely indulged before drifting back into sleep.

The next day, the insistent ringing of the telephone finally stirred her. “Hello...” she murmured, her voice raspy.

“Miss Lawrence, this is Ethel." It was Ethel's crisp voice emanating from the other end.

“Oh, Ethel,"

Nicole muttered. She had saved Ethel's number but lacked the clarity to check the screen.

"I apologize for yesterday. I was unexpectedly detained at work and couldn't reach out to you," Ethel apologized.

“No trouble. I got sidetracked as well and forgot to follow up.”