Filed to story: My Husband Regrets Divorcing Me (Audrey & Cornell)
Jarrod, seeing Roscoe’s concern, didn’t react with anger or demand that he leave. He could see the genuine care in Roscoe’s eyes.
Knowing how much Austin adored Roscoe, Jarrod wanted Austin to be happy when he woke up.
Since becoming a father, Jarrod had undergone a profound transformation. He had let go of his cold, distant persona and embraced a warmer, more compassionate version of himself.
At that moment, the three of them shared one goal: to see Austin recover. For the first time, they sat together in harmony, united in their concern, waiting in the hospital corridor.
With Austin hospitalized, a team of specialists stood by, ready to address any emergency.
Finally, on the second night after taking the pill, Austin woke up, looking healthy and full of life.
After a thorough examination, the medical team discovered that Austin’s heart was healing. His heart function had significantly improved.
While he might never be as strong as other children, his life was no longer in danger. It was a true medical miracle.
Though Austin would always be somewhat fragile and unable to engage in strenuous activities, his life was no longer at risk.
Nicole was overwhelmed with emotion. She hugged Austin tightly, tears streaming down her face. “Austin, you’re truly better…”
Austin, feeling joyful, clenched his little fists and declared, “Mommy, now I can protect you!”
Nicole and the others didn’t want to discourage Austin’s enthusiasm. Even though his health would always limit him, they let him enjoy the moment.
Roscoe gently patted Austin’s head, his smile full of warmth. “Austin, I’m looking forward to seeing you grow stronger.”
Austin beamed and said, “I will, Roscoe.”
Now that Austin had awakened, Jarrod’s tolerance for Roscoe’s presence had worn thin. In a cold tone, he asked, “Is your company still running? How do you still have time to hang around here?”
Roscoe perceived Jarrod’s thinly veiled attempt to drive him away, yet he maintained a composed demeanor.
“I appreciate your concern, Mr. Schultz. However, my company is doing well for the time being.”
Jarrod was momentarily speechless. He harbored no genuine concern for Roscoe.
Instead, he secretly hoped Roscoe’s circumstances would deteriorate to the point of necessitating his departure from Ardlens.
Nevertheless, Jarrod felt compelled to maintain a facade of civility, particularly because Nicole had named Roscoe as Austin’s godfather.
Jarrod was mindful not to let his son’s godfather suffer too much.
“Your family’s biggest competitor recently conducted an inspection in Raytown,” Jarrod said abruptly.
A faint crease formed on Roscoe’s brow, indicating his surprise. He hadn’t been aware of this.
The Raytown project, currently in its final negotiation phases, was critical to his company. If the rival company had visited Raytown now, it could mean an attempt to undermine his project.
Considering that both companies operated in the same industry, competition was expected, but the timing of this move—right before the completion of Watts Group’s project—seemed particularly underhanded.
After a brief silence, Roscoe simply said, “Thank you.”
Jarrod scoffed in response, asserting, “Survival of the fittest. If you can’t keep up, don’t blame anyone else.”
The implication was clear. If Roscoe thought Jarrod’s past actions were personal, he was mistaken. Even in Jarrod’s absence, others would have targeted the Watts family during their vulnerable period.
Even a dying camel is larger than a horse. Despite their setbacks, the Watts family still held considerable value, and securing their contracts could benefit any emerging company.
Jarrod’s interventions had deterred many opportunists. Attempting to rival him was futile.
His power wasn’t just about dominance in Ardlens—it was his ruthless methods and strategies that made him nearly invincible.
Jarrod was a true tactician, having once shut down a publicly listed company within three hours.
No one dared provoke him without risking severe consequences.
His actions had inadvertently given Roscoe the crucial time needed to defend his company. Fighting one formidable opponent was far easier than fending off multiple at once.
Ironically, Roscoe’s survival of Jarrod’s assault had elevated his standing in the business world. As a result, many potential adversaries who might have harbored malicious intent were now deterred.
Roscoe’s collaboration with a subsidiary of the Clement Group only further highlighted his capabilities. People took notice—he had withstood the wrath of one business titan and gained the favor of another. He was now operating on a level few could reach.
But Roscoe still couldn’t grasp why Jarrod, who had once been determined to destroy him, had suddenly shifted tactics. Why was Jarrod now offering indirect assistance?
Taking a few steps forward, Roscoe asked, “Why are you doing this?”
Jarrod, unsurprised by the question, replied indifferently, “Because the mother of my child trusts you. She doesn’t want anything to happen to you. But that doesn’t mean I like you, so stay out of my sight and don’t let me catch you visiting Austin.”
With that, Jarrod turned and walked away.
Roscoe stood there, deep in thought. He marveled at Jarrod’s unexpected change, his willingness to compromise, allowing him limited access to Austin.
Yet, there was a twinge of melancholy. Did this signify the end of his involvement in Nicole’s life?
Just then, a figure emerged from behind the door—it was Nicole.
Nicole had clearly overheard their conversation, understanding the situation but still astonished.
She hadn’t expected such a concession from Jarrod.
“Roscoe…”
“Nicole…”
They both began speaking at the same time.
Nicole gestured for Roscoe to continue.
Roscoe spoke earnestly, “Nicole, do you know why I’ve fought so hard all this time? I wanted to create stability so I could offer you happiness. But now…”
His voice turned somber.
“I realize that true happiness is knowing you and your children are safe and well. I won’t ask for more. Please remember, I’ll always care for you, and that won’t change.”
At that moment, Roscoe understood he could never measure up to Jarrod. In terms of ability and other qualities, he found himself lacking.
Even if he tried, he doubted he could ever reach the level of magnanimity Jarrod had just demonstrated.
Love often made people selfish, unwilling to share what they cherished.
Austin had already accepted the baby growing in Nicole’s belly, and it seemed only a matter of time before Nicole followed suit.
Roscoe felt a deep, indescribable sense of loss, but as long as Nicole found happiness, he would accept it.
Nicole looked at Roscoe, burdened by unspoken words. But all she could say was, “You’ll always be family to me, and to Austin too.”
Nicole would never forget the time they shared, the care Roscoe had shown her and Austin. But she couldn’t give him the future he desired, so it was best to keep their bond as family.
She had promised Roscoe she would always care for him. Once the baby was born, her focus would be solely on her children and reviving her father’s company—nothing else.
“Okay, Nicole,” Roscoe said softly. “I’ll never forget that.”
With that, he left.
Nicole returned to the hospital room. As she approached the door, she saw Jarrod sitting by Austin’s bed, gazing intently at their son.
Jarrod had once harbored a deep disdain for children. His heart had been consumed by hatred, leaving no room for anything else.
But now, as he looked at Austin’s innocent face and healthier form, Jarrod realized just how much he had missed out on.
He felt unworthy of the title “father,” yet selfishly, he wanted Nicole to keep the baby growing inside her. This bond—their children—was a thread that tied them together.
Jarrod, who had always been domineering and rough, now showed glimpses of tenderness.
Gazing at Austin, Jarrod murmured, “I’m sorry you had to suffer so much…”
Nicole stopped in her tracks upon hearing this. For the first time, she wondered if Jarrod wasn’t as heartless as he seemed. After all, he was the father of her children. Perhaps he wouldn’t be so cruel toward them.
People were shaped by their upbringing, and Jarrod had never received the love or guidance he needed. He was like a machine, filled with bitterness.
Jarrod turned to face Nicole and spoke in a calm tone, “Austin just fell asleep.”
Nicole nodded. As Jarrod began to leave, she called out, “Wait a moment.”
“What is it?” he asked.
Nicole shut the door behind her, her voice gentle as she followed Jarrod. “About Roscoe, I misjudged you. I owe you an apology and my thanks.”
Nicole’s forthrightness was a defining trait. She always distinguished right from wrong and never hesitated to speak the truth or apologize.
Jarrod’s lips twitched, amusement flickering behind his composed look. With feigned indifference, he replied, “I didn’t help him.” He was reluctant to admit he had assisted his love rival.