“I... A little," Nicole admitted, her voice weak. She had been looking forward to resting at home, but her stomach discomfort was intensifying, and her pallor deepened.

Recognizing the urgency, Rhett didn't hesitate. He swiftly turned the car around and headed straight for the hospital, prioritizing her immediate need for medical attention.

Upon their arrival at the hospital, Nicole was swiftly placed in a wheelchair and whisked away for examination.

Rhett remained by her side throughout the process. The medical team quickly diagnosed her with abdominal cramps, likely exacerbated by the cold.

The pain originating from here abdomen had led Nicole to mistakenly believe her stomach was the issue.

The attending physician provided a saline solution appropriate for pregnant women and briefed Rhett on Nicole's care, mistaking him for a relative due to his attentive presence.

Rhett listened intently, nodding as he took in the instructions, his demeanor reflecting his serious commitment to Nicole's well-being. He respected her privacy and refrained from probing into the details of her pregnancy, which Nicole found immensely relieving. Any questions about it could have created an uncomfortable situation, especially since Rhett was well aware of her complicated relationship with Jarrod.

Nicole was keen to keep the details of her pregnancy discreet, particularly the association with Jarrod.

Once she began to feel better, Nicole checked her phone and noticed several missed calls from Davina. Concerned, she promptly returned the call. Davina's voice came through tearful and anxious. "Miss Lawrence, are you okay? I called that driver, and he said he dropped you off. I've been trying to reach him repeatedly, and then he just blocked me. I was so worried..."

Nicole quickly reassured Davina, “I'm okay, honestly. I just felt a bit under the weather and got myself to the hospital. A friend accompanied me."

Davina, while somewhat relieved, remained concerned, pressing, "Which hospital? I'll come right away."

"There's really no need," Nicole replied, mindful of Davina's earlier alcohol consumption. "You should head home and rest. I'm in capable hands here. I'll manage on my own after the IV."

“I can't leave you alone." Davina persisted, worry evident in her voice. “I should be there with you."

“Truly, it's unnecessary," Nicole gently said. "My friend is here, and he'll see me home later. By the time you arrive, I'll likely be finished with the IV. Please, go home and rest."

After several more assurances, Davina reluctantly agreed, urging Nicole to take care before ending the call.

After ending the call, Nicole glanced up to find Rhett still present.

"Mr. Bates, you can head home now. I'm feeling much better and should be able to manage on my own soon."

Nicole didn't want to burden Davina further, especially knowing she had been working hard. Feeling improved, she felt capable of handling things independently.

But Rhett countered, “That won't do. Besides, you've already mentioned someone would take you home. Leaving you behind was not an option. I should drive you home to ensure you're safely back."

Nicole couldn't suppress a laugh at his reasoning. Rhett's cheerful demeanor was comforting, and his presence was oddly relaxing.