Nicole was determined to look after Austin until he reached adulthood, regardless of her own health challenges.
If necessary, she would appoint a trustworthy guardian to ensure his well-being until then.
Although Jarrod was wealthy, his principles and the inherent risks associated with his lifestyle did not promise a secure environment for Austin.
As a mother, she could not stand by and watch her child be exposed to such hazards.
Thus, Nicole reiterated, âIâm insisting on taking custody of Austin.
His staying with you does him no good.
â
Jarrodâs face remained impassive, his inner turmoil masked by a serene exterior.
He had watched the recording, stunned by Vickiâs and Doreenâs merciless attack on Nicole.
He was well aware that Nicoleâs endurance was for Austinâs sake.
Yet, the easiest solution was within reach for Nicole.
Just turning to him for help would do.
She simply refused to consider it.
Could he be that bad in her eyes?
Regaining his calm, Jarrod responded indifferently, âAre you certain you want to fight for custody of Austin?â
Nicole held her breath, fully aware of the gravity of her decision.
In all honesty, she wanted to Austinâs custody because this was the only way she could ensure that Austin would be safe and sound.
Given Austinâs frail condition, he was vulnerable to even minor harm.
This was the primary reason Nicole had gone to great lengths to prevent Vicki from marrying Jarrod.
Although Austinâs recovery was slow, the doctor had recently assured Nicole that his condition had markedly improved, and the planned donation should proceed without issue.
Because of these developments, Nicole knew she must take Austin back to her side to ensure everything went smoothly.
Failure was not an option, as it would leave her with lifelong regret.
âof courseâ¦â Nicole began to speak.
However, she was interrupted as Jarrod gently placed his finger on her lips and whispered, âShh.
â
The slight roughness of his fingertip sent a shock through Nicole.
She felt her skin crawl and instinctively stepped back.
Instead of retreating, Jarrod stepped forward, smiling slightly.
âNicole, if you truly want this, you need to prove your sincerity.
â
Startled, Nicole quickly took another step back and asked, âWhat do you want?â
Before she could regain her footing, his hot breath was on her.
Jarrod pressed Nicole against the wardrobe and delivered a fierce ki*s to her swollen lips, as if testing her.
He then deepened the ki*s, biting her Lips forcefully.
Jarrodâs aroma of alcohol froze Nicole for a moment, and then she reacted by pushing him back.
To her dismay, Jarrod bent his knees, trapping her legs, and ki*sed her forcefully.
He held the back of her head and continued the brutal ki*s, biting her intensely.
Nicole tried to escape his aggressive advances, but against his nearly six-foot frame, her efforts seemed futile.