Indeed, the shift in Jarrod's demeanor could be attributed to the transformative power of fatherhood.

At that particular moment, all three of them were united by a singular objective. It was to witness Austin's restoration to health.

For the very first time, the trio sat together in perfect harmony, side by side, in the hospital corridor.

With Austin hospitalized, a team of experts remained on standby, prepared to swiftly address any potential emergency.

Finally, on the second night following the pill's administration, Austin awoke, appearing rosy with health and in high spirits.

Upon thorough examination by the medical team, it was discovered that Austin's heart function was self-repairing, exhibiting significantly enhanced metrics. Throughout this period, his heart continued to undergo healing. Although he might not attain the same level of health as other children his age, his heart had grown substantially stronger than before. It was truly a medical marvel.

In this trajectory, Austin would likely remain somewhat delicate, unable to undertake strenuous activities, yet his life would no longer be in jeopardy.

Nicole was overcome with emotion. She embraced Austin tightly, tears of relief streaming down her face. “Austin, you're better... You're truly better..."

Austin, buoyed by his happiness, clenched his tiny fist and declared, “Mommy, now I can protect you."

Nicole and the others chose not to dampen Austin's spirits. Despite his lifelong frailty rendering him unable to protect others, they refrained from discouraging him.

Roscoe affectionately patted Austin's head, his smile warm and encouraging. “Austin, I eagerly await witnessing your transformation into a resilient young man."

Austin beamed with delight, responding, "I will, Roscoe."

Upon Austin's awakening, Jarrod's patience with Roscoe's presence in the room wore thin. In a cold tone, he questioned, "Is your company still in business? How do you still have time to linger here?"

Roscoe perceived Jarrod's thinly veiled attempt to drive him away, yet he maintained a composed demeanor. "I appreciate your concern, Mr. Schultz. However, my company is doing well for the time being.”

Jarrod was left momentarily speechless. He harbored no genuine concern for Roscoe. Instead, he covertly hoped Roscoe's circumstances would deteriorate to the point of necessitating his departure from Ardlens.

Nevertheless, Jarrod felt compelled to maintain a facade of civility, particularly because Nicole had identified Roscoe as Austin's godfather.

Jarrod was mindful of not allowing his son's godfather to endure excessive misery.

“Your family's formidable competitor recently conducted an inspection in Haytown," Jarrod said abruptly.

A faint crease formed on Roscoe's brow, indicating his surprise. He hadn't been privy to this information. The Haytown project, currently in its final phases of negotiation, held significant importance for his company. If the rival company ventured to Haytown at this juncture, it could indicate an attempt to disrupt his project.

Considering both companies operated within the same industry, competition was normal. But the timing of the rival's approach just before the completion of the Watts Group's project seemed particularly underhanded.