Regret gnawed at Nicole. She blamed herself for meeting Jarrod when she was young.

This mistake brought catastrophe upon her family and the entire Lawrence lineage.

Tears streamed down Nicole's face. She wept silently, and her body shivered with each sob.

To Jarrod, her silent tears were like daggers piercing his heart.

Meanwhile, as Jamie observed them from the side, a surge of jealousy welled up within her.

She understood Jarrod more than anyone. Jarrod's anger was a mask for his care. The angrier he was, the more profound his feelings were.

And even now, she saw his hesitation.

They both agreed to take over the Lawrence Group.

Moreover, Jarrod had assured her that once he took control of the Lawrence family, he would sever ties with Nicole and marry her instead.

Jarrod had never intended to comply with that three-year agreement between Nicole and him.

It was a ploy to Lull Nicole into a false sense of security and made her think she had plenty of time to deal with Jarrod.

ALL of these was Jamie's idea. Crushing Nicole's hopes at the peak and turning her dreams to dust was the most satisfying thing ever.

But now, Jarrod seemed to waver.

Jamie realized Nicole's profound impact on Jarrod. She had to do something.

With this realization, Jamie concealed her resentment and gently placed her hand on Jarrod's.

“Jarrod, please, let's not ruin the evening. Remember, it's my birthday."

Her words seemed to calm Jarrod instantly.

At last, he released Nicole, who stumbled back against the railing for support.

The wind on the deck whipped around them and snatched away the coat Jamie had just donned, now marked with a trace of blood.

Delicate as ever, Jamie refused to wear it again. She looked at Jarrod and asked, “Could you get me another coat, Jarrod? It's so cold."