“I have the day off. I intend to pay a visit to Brett's residence."

“Where are you currently? Can you wait for me? I'd like to accompany you."

Brett was the sole individual capable of elucidating the events leading up to Nicole's father's demise.

Nicole harbored a desire to inquire of Brett directly.

After coordinating a meeting with Ethel, Nicole swiftly rose, prepared herself, and departed.

Presenting a nourishing soup, the maid conveyed, "Madam, Mr. Schultz mandated its consumption upon your awakening."

"No, thank you. I must depart," Nicole responded.

Persisting, the maid urged, "Please, indulge. Otherwise, I shall be held accountable by Mr. Schultz."

Nicole's expression soured. “No explanation is necessary. Simply inform him of my refusal."

"This..." The maid was clearly distressed.

"Why not drink it?" Jarrod emerged from the corner. "Where are you rushing off to?"

Nicole was taken aback to find Jarrod still at the house. He appeared relaxed in casual attire, emerging from the study where he had likely been working for some time.

As Jarrod came down the stairs, he approached Nicole and gently smoothed her hair. "You didn't even brush your hair properly. What's the rush?"

A twinge of anxiety struck Nicole. Her upcoming meeting with Ethel involved matters related to Jarrod, and she preferred to keep that hidden. She paused momentarily before responding, "Raegan invited me out for some shopping."

Jarrod's gaze briefly flickered. "I see."

He chose not to probe further. Instead, he accepted a bowl of soup from the maid, handing it to Nicole. "This will help replenish your energy. You expended quite a bit last night. Make sure you drink this before you head out."

Despite feeling defiant, Nicole worried about arousing suspicion and reluctantly accepted the bowl, drinking the soup quickly. “ALL done."

Thereafter, the maid retrieved the empty bowl from her.

Jarrod then proposed, “Hold on a moment. I'll change and drive you there."

Nicole's heart raced. "There's no need."