The recent decision by the Dixon Group to align with Roscoe appears unjust.

The Watts family's predicament had already ignited widespread discussion, with external speculation suggesting that the Schultz Group had been inhibiting Roscoe because of Doreen.

Jarrod's conspicuous silence on the matter spoke volumes, suggesting a desire for Roscoe's downfall.

The assistant doubted that Mitchel, the president of the Dixon Group, was oblivious to this situation. If Mitchel indeed opted to partner with the Watts family despite these circumstances, wouldn't that be a direct affront to Jarrod? Weren't Mitchel and Jarrod friends?

The Watts family was in disarray, hardly an attractive prospect for the Dixon Group's investment.

Jarrod was taken aback by Roscoe's ability to persuade Mitchel, knowing that Mitchel only invested where he saw genuine potential, immune to pressure. But how had Roscoe made inroads with Mitchel?

Raegan seemed the likely connector, possibly through Nicole's intervention.

Jarrod, with a smirk, noted Nicole's decisive actions. She was determined not to let Roscoe suffer in the slightest. "Let's set this aside for now," he declared, not wanting to confront Mitchel yet, but resolved to seek an explanation later.

A letter from a lawyer Nicole had engaged sat on Jarrod's desk.

Jarrod scoffed. Nicole was really something, securing a daring lawyer willing to tackle their case. Custody battle? Visitation rights? He had made his stance clear. If Nicole chose Roscoe, she shouldn't harbor any illusions about laying eyes on Austin again. He wouldn't allow his son to address Roscoe as "dad" or even "uncle."

Displeased, Jarrod tapped the law firm's name and directed, "I don't want to see this law firm again.”

His assistant acknowledged, "Understood, Mr. Schultz."

Shortly, the Law firm in question faced a rigorous tax investigation, leading to its shutdown.

Meanwhile, Nicole, still at the hospital for a checkup, was fraught with anxiety. The initial results of her pregnancy test were ambiguous, yet her persistent nausea fueled her unease. She awaited the blood test results, and after an agonizing wait, she received the report.

The results indicated high levels. Nicole's heart sank as the doctor announced, “Congratulations, Miss, you're pregnant."

Stunned, Nicole responded, “What? How is that possible? I had part of my stomach removed before. How can I be pregnant with my condition?"

"You had stomach surgery, but your uterus is unaffected," the doctor explained. "Your uterus is in good condition, albeit a bit cold, but your aftercare was effective. While your chances were slim, pregnancy was not impossible. And now, you are indeed pregnant."

Overwhelmed, Nicole struggled for words, barely grasping the reality.

The doctor, smiling, reassured her, “This is wonderful news. Please inform the father quickly. I'll set up a prenatal checkup file for you here."

Regaining her composure, Nicole quickly declined. “No, thank you. I won't be setting up a file for now.”