The reasoning behind his behavior puzzled Nicole.
She took the bowl containing the herbal medicine, aimed at speeding up the healing process, and spoon-fed him.
Jarrod accepted each spoonful as though it was something delightful.
Given the medicineâs inherent bitterness, it should be consumed quickly to prevent an upset stomach.
However, Jarrod preferred being spoon-fed by Nicole.
After he had taken all his medicine, Nicole dabbed his mouth with a tissue, much like one would care for a patient.
Showing a hint of vulnerability, Jarrod said to Nicole in a softer tone, âThank you.
â
Their interaction was notably calm, a first for them.
Breaking the silence, Nicole said, âJarrod, I need to inform my family and have some work to catch up on.
May I use my phone?â
Handing her his phone, Jarrod said, âFeel free.
â
âI need my phone, though.
â
Adjusting the angle of his bed, Jarrod gave her a smirk and asked, âAnd who do you intend to reach with your phone?â
âI have some orders to take care ofâ¦â
Before Nicole could elaborate, Jarrod interrupted with a laugh and said, âFrom this moment, youâre to avoid any interaction or communication with anyone named Watts, or theyâll face consequences.
â
Nicole responded sharply, âJarrod, what makes you think Iâll obey you?â
Nicole pondered Roscoeâs return to the Watts family might actually be a blessing in disguise.
At the very least, Jarrod would have to reconsider any actions against Roscoe.
âDo you believe Roscoeâs association with the Watts family makes him invulnerable?â Jarrod seemed to read Nicoleâs mind.
He then abruptly held her chin tightly and said, âNicole, youâre underestimating me.
â
Undeterred, Nicole retorted, âJarrod, is intimidation all youâre capable of? Have you become so desperate that you resort to these measures?â
Jarrod replied with a sneer, âAs long as it works on you.
â
He was indifferent to the method as long as it served his purpose.
Whether it was pulling the Schultz family from the brink of disaster or executing grand plans, his methods had always been unyielding.
Just like Jarrod had once reclaimed the reins of the Schultz empire with sheer determination, he aimed to ensure Nicole remained by his side, employing that same determination.
The woman Jarrod set his sights on would remain untouched by others.
âThereâs nothing inappropriate between Roscoe and me.
Youâre seeing things that arenât there,â Nicole asserted.
Jarrod felt reassured by her words.
Although Nicole might despise him, she wasnât deceitful toward him.
His mood lightened, and he gently said, âJust stay well and by my side, and no harm will come your way.
Also, I have some good news for you.
â