Wearing a smile of triumph, Nicole added, "I have one more condition."

“Test your Limits cautiously, Nicole, Jarrod warned, his expression fierce.

Nicole chuckled even more, seemingly amused by his scowl.

"For the next three years, you can't tie the knot. While I may not be noble, I refuse to be anyone's mistress."

Jamie aimed to be Jarrod's wife just to humiliate her.

But Nicole had no intention of playing along. She wouldn't become the woman everyone despised.

Jarrod lost his cool.

“And who exactly do you think you are? Whether I marry or not, you're still obligated to entertain me."

"Jarrod, this isn't up for debate. You won't let the Lawrence family go, and if we can't find a middle ground.

Nicole's voice grew soft but unwavering.

“Let's fight to the death!"

A laugh erupted from Jarrod, unsettling even from a distance.

He relished her words.

Deliberately, he said, “You have my word."

After saying that, he stepped closer and extended his hand.

Without a second thought, Nicole seized it and leapt from the window, landing securely in his embrace.

He walked a few paces before tossing her onto the bed. Pinning her down, he sneered, "You're asking for trouble. Brace yourself for a wretched life."

He vowed to make her endure the hell he had known.

Any trace of warmth vanished from Jarrod's voice, leaving it icy cold.

He leaned in, whispering deliberately, "Welcome to my hell, Miss Lawrence."