Filed to story: My Husband Regrets Divorcing Me (Audrey & Cornell)
Nicole nodded appreciatively. “Thank you. I will think it over.”
After stepping out of the doctor’s office, Nicole slumped onto a nearby bench, overwhelmed by the irony of her situation, pregnant once again with Jarrod’s child. It felt as if fate conspired against her happiness.
She was lost in thought when a familiar voice startled her. “Nicole?”
Looking up, Nicole saw Roscoe approaching.
“What are you doing here? Are you feeling alright?” Roscoe inquired, noticing her distress.
Nicole fumbled with her test results, concealing them behind her back. “Just some stomach issues.”
“Have you had it checked out?” Roscoe asked, concerned. “Do you want me to review the results for you?”
“There’s no need,” Nicole replied, swiftly stashing the reports into her bag. “It’s nothing serious. Don’t worry.”
She didn’t want to add to Roscoe’s burdens as he was just beginning to stabilize his life. Masking her worry with a smile, she changed the subject. “Did you get the results for that pill?”
“Yes,” Roscoe responded. “It’s a rare and valuable herb that’s effective for recovery. But for Austin, it should only be used after his transplant surgery to fully benefit from it.”
Nicole felt a twinge of disappointment. She had hoped for a more immediate solution. Nonetheless, the pill’s importance couldn’t be understated. It was crucial for the survival of her unborn child.
Nicole remembered Jarrod’s update about finding an overseas donor with a terminal illness, meaning time was limited. Surgery for Austin was imminent, a fact that brought her a slight sense of relief knowing Jarrod’s efforts in securing a donor for Austin.
For now, Nicole’s primary concern was maintaining a presence in Austin’s life, not necessarily regaining full custody. Austin was delicate, and her sudden absence could harm his psyche. She and Jarrod had endured much suffering, and she wished to shield Austin from similar pain.
“Alright, I understand.” Curious, Nicole asked, “What brings you to the hospital?”
“I accompanied a colleague for a checkup,” Roscoe explained.
“Well, you go ahead, I’ll head back now,” Nicole stated, preparing to leave.
“If you need anything, just call me,” Roscoe offered, his worry evident.
“I will.” With that, Nicole departed, leaving Roscoe watching her retreating figure, concern etched on his face.
Just watching Nicole walk away felt like a luxury to Roscoe. He recognized the possibility of never regaining entry into Nicole’s heart. Yet, so long as Nicole thrived, he embraced their potential estrangement. He resolved to recede, emerging only in her hour of need.
Upon departing the hospital, Nicole was informed of the law firm’s closure. She halted, comprehending Jarrod’s involvement. Any advocate who dared to represent her would confront consequences.
Her temples pulsed. Whom else could she enlist for her defense? Jarrod was steadfast in obstructing her access to Austin. But why? Austin was her child. What authority did he possess to dictate her access to him? She hadn’t even been there for Austin’s formative years due to postpartum sadness.
Contemplating this, Nicole resolved her stance regarding the new life burgeoning within her. She caressed her abdomen. “I apologize, my child. Please forgive your selfish mother. I cannot bring you into this realm.”
She genuinely desired to sever ties with Jarrod. If their union was not to be, there was no reason for further involvement. Moreover, she lacked the confidence to raise another child.
As long as Austin thrived in safety, her obligation would be fulfilled. Were it not for Austin and her mother, she would have reunited with her late father long ago.
Nicole persisted. She refused to allow the closure of one law firm to deter her from pursuing Austin’s custody. She commenced contacting numerous reputable law firms, yet all declined to take her case.
Upon hearing her name, certain firms promptly declined, evidently heeding prior warnings. It made sense. No one dared risk offending the CEO of the Schultz Group for an unfamiliar woman.
Casting aside the potential result of prevailing against the Schultz Group’s legal team, being blacklisted by Jarrod was a prospect nobody desired. It equated to severing their source of income. No one possessed such recklessness.
Selecting a law firm took time. Nicole disseminated information within legal circles while simultaneously booking an arrangement for her termination of the pregnancy. She fixed her hospital appointment for Wednesday.
During her hospital visit, the physician conducted a series of examinations. Upon confirming her suitability for a medical termination, he prescribed the requisite medication.
The doctor explained in detail, “Here we have two types of medication. For the initial three days, take this one thrice daily. It’s gentler on your system. On the fourth day, return to the hospital for the final dose, which will expel the embryo. Subsequently, we’ll perform a follow-up cleansing procedure.”
Nicole took the medication and inquired, “Will the baby be ended following the fourth day’s dose?”
The doctor nodded. “Indeed. The initial three days’ medication readies your body, and the ultimate dose necessitates administration in the hospital for monitoring.”
Nicole grappled with an incessant unease. Regardless, she recognized this as life and couldn’t suppress her melancholy.
Observing her perturbed countenance, the doctor suggested, “Take these with you and deliberate before commencing. Once initiated, there’s no retreat. Ensure your resolve is steadfast.”
Nodding numbly, Nicole exited the hospital in a haze. Outside, a gentle rain commenced, veiling her tears.
Nicole contemplated, preferring enduring pain over fleeting discomfort. Resolute, she aimed not to waver post-choice. Experiencing the agony of losing a child once was enough. Plus, she doubted her ability to protect this child. It seemed preferable to shield the child from a world of suffering rather than subjecting it to prolonged pain.
Nicole purchased a bottle of water and prepared to ingest the pills. At that moment, her phone chimed. It was Rhett, the attorney who had previously assisted her in Austin’s custody battle.
“Miss Lawrence, I heard you’re seeking legal representation for a visitation rights case?” Rhett inquired forthrightly.
Nicole wasn’t surprised by his awareness. Legal professionals maintained extensive networks, and news of her case likely circulated within their circles. After all, Jarrod explicitly conveyed that her case was off-limits, openly displaying his motives. This was the reason numerous companies had declined her.
“Yes, Mr. Bates,” Nicole responded, though her expectations were low. She wished to avoid burdening Rhett. After the previous custody battle, Rhett’s firm underwent scrutiny, undoubtedly orchestrated by Jarrod. Rhett had since relocated abroad, rendering him seemingly unable to assist from a distance.
“How is the search progressing?” Rhett inquired, his voice tinged with worry.
“I’m still searching, but thank you for asking,” Nicole replied.
“Miss Lawrence, if a suitable candidate hasn’t been found, would you consider allowing me to handle it?”
Nicole was taken aback. She thought she had misheard and sought clarification. “What did you say, Mr. Bates?”
“I’m currently back in the country. Would you like me to take on your case?”
Rhett explained. “I regret not winning your previous case. However, for visitation rights, I am confident. You remember the Morris Group divorce and custody case? I managed that, and the outcome was highly favorable. Custody battles are challenging, but visitation rights? I can assure you there will be no issue.”
Nicole felt embarrassed. “I wouldn’t want to impose, Mr. Bates. I still feel guilty about the problems you encountered previously because of me…”
“Please, Miss Lawrence. The firm’s troubles were due to internal mistakes. Your case had no bearing on them,” Rhett reassured her warmly.
Although Rhett clarified the past incident, Nicole remained convinced of Jarrod’s involvement. It seemed too coincidental otherwise. Rhett’s law firm had undergone scrutiny shortly after accepting her case.
Nicole hadn’t anticipated Rhett’s continued willingness to assist her. Elated, she desired his help, despite the potential inconvenience. After all, no other firm would handle her case.
Moreover, Nicole didn’t want to inconvenience Audrey again. With Jarrod and Cornell being close friends, repeatedly seeking Audrey’s help would place Audrey in a difficult position, potentially straining their bond. Introduced by Audrey, Rhett was deemed reliable.
“If you don’t mind, Mr. Bates, I’d appreciate your assistance,” Nicole said.
“Miss Lawrence, I’m just relieved you’re not displeased with me for not winning the previous case,” Rhett responded courteously.
“How could I be? It wasn’t your fault, Mr. Bates. The opposition was too meticulous,” Nicole hastily said. Previously, Jarrod had laid a trap for her. Regardless of the lawyer’s expertise, failure was inevitable.
“I’m glad you understand, Miss Lawrence. Let’s schedule a meeting. When would suit you?”
“Anytime that suits you,” Nicole said, delighted.
After ending the call, Nicole gazed at the medication in her hand, deliberating for a few moments before tucking it into her bag. Concerned about potential side effects from immediate consumption, she fretted over potential future complications. It was wise to wait before taking the medication.
Nicole and Rhett made arrangements to meet at a quaint caf?.
Demonstrating thoughtfulness, Rhett opted for jasmine tea sans caffeine for Nicole. “Considering the hour, coffee might hinder your sleep tonight.”
“Thank you, Mr. Bates.” Nicole harbored a favorable impression of Rhett. He exuded scholarly airs, often sporting glasses and attire in somber tones of black or gray. His demeanor conveyed gentility and refinement, yet within the courtroom, he advocated with fervor and efficacy.
Rhett’s methodology diverged from that of his peers in the legal field. His arguments were grounded in sound reasoning and logic, rather than mere aggression.
With his serene demeanor, he disarmed people before confronting them with incisive inquiries to extract the necessary answers. This reputation earned him the nickname “The Smiling Devil” within legal circles.
Delving into various facets of the case, Rhett reassured her, “Miss Lawrence, I swear on my career that I will secure visitation rights for you this time.”
“Mr. Bates, such a solemn pledge isn’t necessary. Together, we’ll strive for the best outcome. I have faith in your capabilities.” Nicole felt a tinge of embarrassment at the gravity of Rhett’s expression. It was unconventional for any attorney to make such a daring declaration against Jarrod, let alone stake their career on it.
“Miss Lawrence, you needn’t be so formal. Simply address me as Rhett.” Rhett grinned.
“In that case, you don’t need to be so formal either. Mr. Bates, let’s dispense with the formalities,” Nicole responded.
Observing Nicole’s struggle to address him by his first name, Rhett opted not to push the issue further and simply smiled. “Very well.”
Rhett photographed the drafted agreement before sending it to his assistant.
Just then, Nicole’s phone rang. As she reached for it, she inadvertently dislodged medication from her bag. The pillbox tumbled to the ground.
Nicole hastened to retrieve it, but Rhett beat her to it, swiftly returning it to her.
Out of courtesy, Rhett refrained from examining the pillbox, leaving Nicole uncertain if he had glimpsed the medication’s label. She preferred keeping her pregnancy discreet, ideally undisclosed to anyone, to avoid unnecessary complications. Ultimately, she hadn’t intended to retain the baby.
As Nicole stowed the medication back in her bag, she prepared to explain, “This is…”
“Is it for your stomach issues? Are you still managing them?” Rhett inquired before she could finish. He appeared unaware of the medication’s name. Nicole exhaled a sigh of relief. In that case, no extensive explanation was necessary. She nodded. “Indeed.”
Rhett proposed, “I can introduce you to an outstanding traditional medicine practitioner specializing in stomach ailments if you wish.”
“That would be excellent. Thank you, Mr. Bates.”
Rhett refrained from further discussion on the matter and redirected the conversation toward the case.