The officers displayed their badges, prompting Hallie to panic. “Why are you detaining me? I've done nothing wrong."

One officer clarified, "In connection with the recent assault case, the suspect alleged she acted on your orders to throw sulfuric acid, which you allegedly purchased."

Hallie was stunned. She couldn't fathom her own daughter implicating her to avoid blame. Worse, she couldn't defend herself since she had indeed bought the sulfuric acid.

"I... It wasn't me... You're mistaken..." Hallie protested vehemently, but they took her in for questioning nonetheless.

Conor informed Jarrod about the incident, finding the situation quite a drama. This mother and daughter duo were truly contemptible, attacking each other viciously for self-protection. What kind of family produced such individuals?

Jarrod cast his gaze downward as he spoke sternly. “Sever all ties with them."

Individuals of such caliber were unworthy of any association with the esteemed Schultz family.

In the past, Jarrod's last shred of compassion compelled him to maintain a facade of familial connection. However, the stark reality of his solitude now engulfed him. Even those he believed harbored genuine concern for him, such as Hallie and Doreen, revealed themselves to be opportunists.

Conor proceeded to brief Jarrod on the latest developments concerning Vicki, stating, “It appears the Hampton family plans to intervene on Vicki's behalf. Initially, they appeared resigned, but Vicki's insistence on seeing Wayne changed their stance. After relaying a message through her attorney, Wayne has been endeavoring to secure her release.”

With Wayne's numerous illegitimate offspring, he could have easily relinquished Vicki, who held little significance to him.

However, the fervent public outcry left Lowe beyond redemption. Even the influential connections of the Hampton family couldn't sway public sentiment.

This ordeal had left Wayne emotionally depleted, as the loss of his two most promising heirs simultaneously would undoubtedly crush anyone's spirit.

Vicki wielded some influence over Wayne, compelling him to invest both resources and effort into her release.

Conor aired his conjecture, asserting, “Miss Hampton appears quite adept at influencing her father's decisions."

Jarrod concurred with Conor's analysis, harboring similar suspicions.

Contemplating Vicki's potential release, Jarrod apprehended that Nicole would undoubtedly become Vicki's prime target. The rivalry among women could be profoundly unsettling.

Jarrod instructed Conor, “Monitor the Hampton family's activities closely. If Vicki is Liberated, ensure constant surveillance of her. Prevent any proximity to Nicole."

"Understood." Conor nodded.

Jarrod then inquired, “Any developments concerning Jamie?"

Jamie had vanished once more. Following her recuperation in the hospital, she slipped away while the nurses weren't paying attention.