“I'm fine. There's nothing to worry about," Nicole responded calmly.

The relief that washed over Jarrod's face was palpable, his eyes softening as the tension drained from his features.

In his groggy state, Jarrod was haunted by a terrifying dream. He envisioned Doreen, knife in hand, lunging at Nicole and stabbing Nicole in the abdomen. This nightmare jolted him into a state of urgency.

Abruptly, Jarrod reached out and wrapped his arms around Nicole's waist, resting his head gently against her belly. He was cautious not to press too hard, enduring his own pain to maintain this tender connection. “Nicole, I beg you, hold on to our child," he murmured urgently.

Taken aback by his sudden embrace, Nicole's initial reaction was to escape, but Jarrod's grip was both secure and soothing, binding her closely.

"Please..." His voice cracked as he raised his eyes to meet hers, filled with a raw, heartfelt plea. "Nicole, from the depths of my heart, I beseech you, do not forsake our child. I vow to grant you the liberty you cherish. I give you my word."

Nicole's frame stiffened, her face etching a portrait of rigidity and resistance. This instinctive resistance was her immediate and profound response to his desperate entreaty.

Jarrod was momentarily stunned by Nicole's reaction. A bitter smile flickered across his face as he released her. He realized with a heavy heart that Nicole would never again feel any worry or attachment toward him. The only emotions she seemed to harbor now were hatred and disgust. It was stark, the way she detached herself, stripping him of any remaining hope. Her indifference was like a blade to his heart.

To Nicole, Jarrod's emotional plea was merely a minor blip, insignificant in the grand scheme of her life. She responded with a cool, distant tone, "Since you're awake, I'll be heading back now. I hope you get well soon."

Her words carried no warmth. They were merely a formality, spoken because he was the father of her child and a semblance of civility had to be maintained. Nothing more.

"Take some rest, Nicole." Jarrod's voice held a resigned tone as she made her way to the door.

Just as Nicole reached for the handle, Jarrod's voice stopped her.

"Hey, Nicole!"

Turning back, Nicole met his gaze, curiosity evident in her expression. Seizing the moment, Jarrod spoke with determination.

"I'll handle Doreen. Don't worry. I won't go easy on her."

His words were a pledge, a declaration of his commitment to keeping Nicole and their child safe. With Doreen's actions becoming increasingly volatile, Jarrod understood the urgency of the situation, especially with Nicole carrying their unborn child. If Doreen escaped repercussions now, there was no telling how arrogant she might become in the future.

Jarrod's decision was firm, his resolve unwavering.

Nicole remained silent. She had no intention of letting Doreen off lightly. As long as Jarrod didn't intervene, that was all she needed.

Each incident had to be judged independently. While Doreen's being raped was tragic, her intent to harm Nicole was a harsh reality.

Nicole harbored no sympathy for someone who sought to inflict harm upon her.