Alec had warned that Jamieâs poison acted slowly.
Slow meant there was still time to spend with Nicole and their child.
That was all that mattered.
At dawn the next day, Jarrod woke to find Nicole already up.
He hurried downstairs in search of her.
Approaching a housekeeper, he inquired, âHave you seen my wife?â
The housekeeper responded with a smile, âMadam is in the kitchen, preparing breakfast for you.
â
Jarrod was stunned.
The housekeeper beamed.
âSir, youâre in for a treat.
Madam is quite the cook.
â
Previously, Nicoleâs aloof demeanor had cast a chill over the household.
Even Austin, the usually quiet and frail child, felt it.
The villa had lacked warmth, and the staff often spoke in hushed tones.
Now, with Nicole actively making breakfast for Jarrod, it seemed she was attempting to bridge the gap in their strained relationship.
Given Jarrodâs profound affection for her, the housekeeper anticipated his delight.
Though Jarrod often concealed his emotions, the housekeeper sensed his pleasure.
âs BunnyBookery Entering the kitchen, Jarrod paused at the sight of Nicole bustling about.
It felt surreal.
He stood motionless until Nicole caught sight of him.
She appeared cheerful, her mood uplifting.
Noticing Jarrod in his pajamas, she gently suggested, âGo freshen up.
Breakfast will be ready shortly.
â
Jarrod gave a small nod.
After refreshing himself and dressing, Jarrod joined Nicole and Austin at the breakfast table.
The meal was simple but inviting, soy milk, sandwiches and porridge, nourishing and traditionally prepared.
Austin, eyeing the soy milk and sandwiches eagerly, asked in a low voice, âMommy, can I have some soy milk?â
As Jarrod reached for the ladle to serve Austin, Nicole intervened.
âNo, Austin, remember your restrictions?â
Austin knew, yet his desire was palpable.
He implored gently, âJust one sip? Please?â
It was the first time he had made such a request, believing a small sip would be harmless.
Seeing his sonâs yearning, Jarrod interjected, âLet him have just a sip.
It should be fine.
â
âWhat do you mean, âit should be fineâ?â Nicole retorted sharply, her gaze piercing.
âDo you even grasp the severity of Austinâs condition? He cannot have even a sip.
â
Jarrodâs hand halted, the mood at the table chilling instantly.
Austin, feeling the weight of their stares, whispered guiltily, âI wonât drink it.
â