"Hmm?" Jarrod paused, eyeing her curiously.

Tightening her grip, Nicole resisted giving further details. "I just don't want you to."

After a brief pause, Jarrod said, "Very well, I'll have the driver take you then.”

Nicole shook her head. "No, Raegan is sending a car for me."

This seemed to comfort Jarrod slightly, knowing the Dixon family's vehicle would be secure.

“Alright, you can go then." Jarrod walked Nicole to the door and watched as she entered the car.

It was only when the vehicle pulled away and she was safely en route that Nicole allowed herself to relax.

Nicole had planned wisely. Raegan's Serenity Villa was not far, and after her earlier message, the Dixon family car had arrived right on time.

Nicole dialed Raegan's number. “Raegan, thank you. I'm on my way.”

“Don't mention it. Just promise me you'll inform me if anything comes up, okay?" Raegan expressed her concern. She had recently learned about Nicole's marriage to Jarrod, a revelation that left her both shocked and worried.

"I'll take care of it," Nicole stated calmly.

After a brief pause, Raegan cautiously advised, "Nicole, dealing with someone like Jarrod might require a gentler approach. Perhaps he'll be less troublesome, especially since you're the mother of his child."

Nicole responded simply, “I understand."

It was clear to Nicole that Raegan's advice was driven by genuine concern for her welfare.

“Just be cautious in all you do. Remember, you have both my support and that of the entire Dixon family. We are here for you," Raegan added reassuringly.

Raegan knew Nicole had some kind of agreement with Jarrod and her own plans.

If sharing details was feasible, Nicole would. Otherwise, Raegan respected her privacy.

True friendship was about caring for each other's well-being, not just exchanging gossip.

“I'm aware. If I need help, I'll reach out, like I did today,"

Nicole said.