Chapter 1414:

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When Jarrod noticed that she was no longer distant and submissive, his lips formed a subtle smile. “I'm not crazy. And you’re surprised that I think that way?”

Lifting his chin with a trace of self-deprecation, Jarrod asked, “Don't you always see me like this?”

Nicole's hands balled into fists and she screamed, "Yes, to me you are a monster! But..."

He paused briefly, then added, “To Austin, you are his father.”

Jarrod's heart sank at his words. He knew he might not be a great father, but with Austin in his life, he felt obligated to take on the responsibilities of parenting. Even though it was hard, he was serious about it.

Nicole continued: “Considering all this, would you really hand Austin over to that malicious woman?”

Of course Jarrod wouldn't do that. However, he kept his thoughts to himself.

His expression darkened. “That's none of your business.”

Nicole chuckled. “Indeed. It's really none of my business. Mr. Schultz, you're trying to take care of your cousin, your fiancée, and your future brother-in-law, right? That's up to you. But whether you can actually keep them safe or not… Well, we'll have to see, won't we?”

Jarrod raised an eyebrow. “What exactly are you implying?”

“I have the backup copy of the storage card. Has that ever crossed your mind?” Nicole's smile was enigmatic, adding a layer of intrigue.

Jarrod was caught off guard. He hadn't considered Nicole capable of having a backup simultaneously.

With the advanced technology, it was certainly feasible. For a brief moment, he wasn't sure it was a bluff. I have watched her face carefully, searching for some clue.

Nicole kept her composure and her voice steady. “You seem unconcerned about Austin’s safety. As his mother, it is up to me to take action. Tomorrow I will expose the true faces of all the members of your precious circle to the public.”

His tone was resolute, convincing Jarrod that he might indeed have a backup. His expression turned serious. He asked, “And then?”

Nicole hesitated. She didn't understand what he meant.

Once this comes out, Doreen won't have to take the blame. My sister will cover for her.

At worst, Doreen will have to spend some time abroad to let things calm down, but her prospects will not be tarnished at all.

As for Vicki and Lowe, backed by the Hamptons, I doubt you can cause them any trouble. And let's say you manage to make this scandal trend thanks to money or contacts, what will happen then?

Jarrod set his wine glass down, his face a mask of detached calm.

"Their situation is similar to Doreen's. None of this will affect them."

His tone turned icy. “Nicole, don't be so naive. I may decide not to marry Vicki, but that doesn't stop me from marrying someone else. Should I then consider whether they are suitable for Austin?”

Nicole had never considered Jarrod's perspective. However, he was right. The video in her possession could prevent Vicki from becoming Jarrod's wife. But what about other women who would become Jarrod's fiancée? How could she judge whether they were suitable or unsuitable?

As long as Jarrod maintained custody of Austin, these looming threats would remain unavoidable.

For a moment, Nicole stood there bewildered, staring into Jarrod's deep eyes, baffled by his thoughts. She asked curtly, “What do you want from me to secure custody of Austin?”

Nicole would only be at peace when Austin was in her care. She had amassed for Austin an estate that, while not lavish, was significantly better than average, providing him with a stable base.

With Nicole's money, Austin was free to pursue his passions. If he was interested in business, the trust fund could serve as a seed investment and launch him into success under his guidance.

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