Nicole remained silent. Her glazed eyes and bruised face made Jarrod abruptly loosen his grip, as if snapping back to reality.

Once she could breathe, Nicole inhaled deeply, like a dry fish finding water.

Her complexion matched the whiteness of the bed sheet.

She recalled her bizarre dream.

In her sleep, Jarrod had held her tenderly, caressing her hair as though they were newfound lovers. That compassionate Jarrod only existed in her fantasies.

Divine mercy would never touch her again.

Staring at the woman he deemed deceitfully pathetic, Jarrod's mood darkened.

He issued a brief command, “Consider it an accident. Be cautious with your words."

A flush of rage colored Nicole's face. She felt utterly humiliated.

Were he and Jamie both plotting against her?

She questioned, “Jarrod, where's my phone?"

With a derisive laugh, Jarrod tossed her the phone.

Wasting no time, Nicole pressed the emergency numbers. She might not be able to confront Jamie and the monster before her, but someone had to answer for her abuse and disfigurement.

Unfazed, Jarrod inquired, "So, you've made your choice? Will you really jeopardize the Lawrence family over such a minor matter?"

“What are you implying, Jarrod?" Nicole shot back.

Minor? The pain on her face was unbearable, and she'd heard the nurse mention her disfigurement.

Was that insignificant to them?

"As I've stated, it was an accident," Jarrod coldly retorted.

Shaking with indignation, Nicole spat out, “Jarrod, are you suggesting I should just tolerate this?"

"Indeed."