Nicole, without giving it too much thought, declined politely. “Maybe next time. I just popped out for a bit. She's an old friend and she's resting now."

"Oh." Rhett asked, "Do you need a ride?"

"Thanks, but you don't have to," Nicole responded promptly.

"Someone's already on their way to pick me up.”

At that moment, Jarrod walked over. Clad in a black trench coat, his imposing stature dominated the space as he approached Nicole. “Time to go," he stated simply.

Unaware of Rhett standing a few paces off, or so it seemed, Jarrod maintained his focus on Nicole. Jarrod and Rhett had all met previously, yet it was Rhett who broke the silence, addressing Jarrod respectfully, "Mr. Schultz."

Jarrod gave no reply, merely nodding slightly in acknowledgment without turning to face Rhett.

Nicole, sensing the awkwardness, attempted to smooth things over. “I just ran into Mr. Bates," she mentioned casually.

At this, Jarrod turned briefly, offering Rhett a curt grunt.

Rhett, undeterred and smiling, remarked, “It's nice to witness the plaintiff and defendant getting chummy. It's heartwarming.”

Jarrod then turned fully, his voice laced with a hint of sarcasm.

"Mr. Bates, you don't have anything better to do?" His words carried an undertone of disdain, suggesting Rhett was merely loitering.

Unfazed, Rhett responded with a light-hearted grin, "I've got a moment, certainly less occupied than you are, Mr. Schultz."

The exchange carried a subtle undertone of tension, catching Nicole's attention.

Given Rhett's previous display of fearlessness toward Jarrod, Nicole sought to prevent further misunderstandings and shield Rhett from their discord. "Mr. Bates, I need to get going now. Let's plan to meet up soon," she said smoothly.

“Absolutely, Miss Lawrence," Rhett replied, nodding with polite formality. He remained still, watching as Nicole and Jarrod departed, his expression turning thoughtful and calculating.

Then, deciding to visit Callie, Rhett made his way to her ward, only to be halted by a police officer standing guard. "Sorry, no entry allowed," the officer informed him firmly.

“My apologies. I took the wrong turn," Rhett said.

Rhett approached the nurse's station, his voice low. “Excuse me, could you help me bandage this?"

Rhett held out his bloody finger, eliciting a gasp from the nurse.