Jarrod's voice carried a genuine hint of grievance.

From last night until now, Jarrod had not felt like eating anything but the congee that another man had enjoyed, brought by Nicole.

Nicole was aware of Jarrod's tendency to be petty. To prevent any potential issues for Rhett, she explained, "I looked after Rhett because he was injured helping me. It was quite serious. He suffered a lot on my behalf, so I felt obligated to care for him."

“Well, you are so kind," Jarrod said, his voice heavy with sarcasm.

Nicole looked at him, wondering if this was still the Jarrod she knew. This unexpected change was very strange. He appeared less aloof and more approachable, almost like a completely different person.

Nicole was not going to spoil his emotions. She said, “Yes, I am kind, but I choose whom to be kind to."

The message was clear.

Jarrod went quiet. After a moment, he said, "I want to eat that fish."

Nicole hesitated but chose to oblige him since he was still recovering. She selected a boneless piece from the belly of the fish and fed it to him along with the congee.

This was once a routine for Jarrod. He always offered Nicole the first piece of fish belly.

After eating the fish belly, Jarrod said, "I'm full."

Nicole responded, “You should eat more to recover faster. Then Conor would not need to pretend he has a stomach ache." She had seen right through Conor's act.

Jarrod didn't argue. He glanced at the picked-over fish bones and said, "Nicole, I regret it. I wish I had not been so harsh with you before."

Nicole remained silent.

Jarrod observed her closely, maybe because the thought of another child between them got him thinking deeper. How had things come to this?

Mitchel had once pointed out that Jarrod was too extreme in his ways, his love and hatred overwhelming.

Mitchel had made similar mistakes before but had recognized them in time to make amends, leading to his current happiness.

Happiness... Jarrod didn't dare to dream of that. He simply prayed for Nicole to have a safe delivery. He was determined to make things right.

As Nicole offered him another spoonful of congee, she said, "Let's not dwell on the past. I'm pleased with our current dynamics, neither too close nor too distant, giving us both space."

Nicole chose not to elaborate. After all, with two children soon to be part of their lives, a strained relationship would not be beneficial for their children's mental and emotional development.