Nicole gestured for Roscoe to continue.

Roscoe spoke earnestly. "Nicole, do you know why I've fought so relentlessly? I wanted to create stability so I could offer you happiness. But now..."

His voice turned somber. “I realize that true happiness is knowing your well-being and your children's safety. I won't ask for more. Please remember, I'll always be there for you and caring for you... That will never change."

At that moment, Roscoe recognized he could not measure up to Jarrod.

In terms of ability and other attributes, he found himself wanting.

Even with years of effort to reach the desired level, he doubted he could ever attain Jarrod's newfound magnanimity.

Love tended to make people petty and selfish, unwilling to share what they cherished.

Austin had already accepted the child in Nicole's belly, and it seemed inevitable that Nicole's acceptance would follow suit. Roscoe experienced a profound, indescribable sense of loss, but as long as Nicole found happiness, he would accept any outcome.

Nicole gazed at Roscoe, burdened with unspoken words, yet all she could muster was, "You'll always be family to me, and to Austin too."

Nicole would never forget the times they shared and the care Roscoe had shown to her and Austin. However, she couldn't offer him the future he yearned for, so it was best to maintain their bond as a family. Moreover, she had promised Roscoe that she would never remarry. Once her child was born, she focused solely on her children and reviving her father's company, nothing else.

"Okay. Nicole, I'll never forget that," Roscoe said before departing.

Nicole returned to the hospital room. Just as she approached the door, she saw Jarrod sitting by Austin's bed, gazing intently at Austin.

Jarrod once harbored a profound disdain for children, his heart consumed by hatred, leaving no room for anything else.

Now, observing Austin's innocent face and healthier form, Jarrod realized the magnitude of what he had missed. A deep sense of unworthiness as a father overwhelmed him. Despite this, he selfishly desired Nicole to keep the unborn child in her belly. This bond between them provided a sense of continuity, ensuring that if he were no longer present, Austin, Nicole, and the child growing inside her would have each other for solace and support.

Jarrod, typically domineering and rough, occasionally revealed glimpses of tenderness.

Gazing at Austin, Jarrod murmured, "I'm sorry you had to endure so much suffering..."

Nicole's pace faltered at this. At that instance, she entertained the notion that perhaps Jarrod wasn't as dreadful as he appeared.

Regardless of anything else, he remained her children's father.

Surely, he wouldn't resort to extreme measures with them.

While inherent traits might shape one's character, proper nurturing was paramount. Jarrod had never received the guidance he needed in life. He resembled a mechanical being, brimming with animosity...