Jarrod half-embraced Nicole, leading her back to the bedroom.

As she lay in bed, Nicole tensed the moment he drew near.

Understanding her discomfort, especially after her visit to her mother, Jarrod knew she might recoil from his touch. He gently patted her arm. “Relax. I won't touch you tonight."

Surprised by his uncharacteristic consideration, Nicole remained tense, eyes shut. Eventually, feeling no further movement from him, her breathing evened out, and she fell into a deep, restorative sleep.

As she was worn out from the day's events, she fell into a deep, restful sleep.

Beside her, Jarrod watched her intently, resting his chin on his hand.

After some time, he rose quietly and retreated to the bathroom for a cold shower.

Returning to bed, his phone illuminated. A message from Alec read, "Sir, don't eat or drink anything that woman gives you."

Jarrod's expression remained unreadable as he deleted the message. He lay down again beside Nicole.

Actually, Jarrod could have chosen not to drink the hangover soup. He could have confronted Nicole, but he desired to keep her close by his side. Despite the uncertainties of its contents, he drank it nonetheless.

Alec had warned that Jamie's poison acted slowly. Slow meant there was still time to spend with Nicole and their child. That was all that mattered.

At dawn the next day, Jarrod woke to find Nicole already up. He hurried downstairs in search of her. Approaching a housekeeper, he inquired, “Have you seen my wife?"

The housekeeper responded with a smile, "Madam is in the kitchen, preparing breakfast for you."

Jarrod was stunned.

The housekeeper beamed. “Sir, you're in for a treat. Madam is quite the cook."

Previously, Nicole's aloof demeanor had cast a chill over the household. Even Austin, the usually quiet and frail child, felt it.

The villa had lacked warmth, and the staff often spoke in hushed tones.

Now, with Nicole actively making breakfast for Jarrod, it seemed she was attempting to bridge the gap in their strained relationship.

Given Jarrod's profound affection for her, the housekeeper anticipated his delight.

Though Jarrod often concealed his emotions, the housekeeper sensed his pleasure.