Filed to story: My Husband Regrets Divorcing Me (Audrey & Cornell)
Time elapsed swiftly. Rhett outlined various strategies, anticipating potential arguments from the opposing counsel and offering corresponding countermeasures. Nicole deemed them practical, complemented by contingency plans. The level of detail was impressive.
Their discussion extended beyond two hours. Upon concluding, Rhett rose and courteously shook Nicole’s hand. “Miss Lawrence, it has been a pleasure collaborating with you. I assure you, you won’t be disappointed this time.”
“Thank you, Mr. Bates. I’m truly grateful.” His timely aid felt like a celestial blessing to Nicole.
“No need for formality. Express your gratitude once this case concludes,” Rhett remarked.
Following their meeting, Rhett coincidentally had an appointment near Nicole’s residence and graciously offered to drive her home.
Due to her pregnancy, Nicole had refrained from driving lately, thus she welcomed the offer of a ride.
As they entered the vehicle, Jarrod, positioned in a nearby car, observed their departure.
Despite their courtroom confrontation, Rhett hadn’t left a lasting impression on Jarrod. Lawyers, in Jarrod’s view, weren’t deserving of his attention.
Jarrod’s new assistant, however, had thoroughly researched Nicole’s connections and recognized Rhett. He happened to be acquainted with Rhett and informed Jarrod, “Mr. Schultz, that’s Rhett, a lawyer. He formerly served with the Clement Group before relocating overseas.”
“I see.” Jarrod displayed minimal reaction. It appeared Nicole had secured a new attorney. The previous one had withdrawn under pressure from his assistant.
Regarding the tax investigation on the law firm, that seemed entirely coincidental.
Jarrod wouldn’t stoop so low as to be capable of such tactics. He trusted his legal team implicitly and saw no threat from other lawyers.
Reminded by his assistant, Rhett’s name gradually resurfaced in Jarrod’s mind. Rhett had displayed remarkable composure and incisiveness in court last time. It was just that time had dulled that recollection.
Jarrod’s brow furrowed slightly as he queried his assistant, “Investigate the relationship between Rhett and Nicole.” Their interaction had struck a nerve.
“Yes, sir,” the assistant replied promptly.
The following day, Jarrod sat in his office when his assistant relayed that Nicole’s lawyer had requested a meeting.
Jarrod, captivated by the lawyer’s forthright manner, consented. “Grant him entry,” he instructed.
Rhett entered Jarrod’s office, exuding tranquility and composure, extending a respectful greeting to Jarrod. His unwavering demeanor garnered admiration.
Jarrod maintained silence, anticipating Rhett’s opening remarks.
“Mr. Schultz, forgive my interruption. I wish to address my client’s inquiries with you,” Rhett remarked.
Jarrod replied icily, “I hold no interest in your client’s inquiries. Inform her that the sole outcome is my victory.”
Rhett remained undeterred, his smile subtle yet unwavering.
“Mr. Schultz, might I suggest a review of my client’s requests before reaching a decision? Miss Lawrence seeks minimal visitation rights for the child’s well-being. As both father and mother, settling this matter out of court would benefit all parties involved, wouldn’t you agree?”
Simultaneously, Rhett presented a tablet to Jarrod, expressing regret, “Apologies, Mr. Schultz. I arrived hastily and forgot the original documents, but they’re available digitally for your perusal.”
Initially disinterested, Jarrod skimmed through the documents, adamant about denying Nicole access to Austin. However, just as he prepared to dismiss them, something on the screen seized his attention. He scrutinized it intently, zooming in for a closer examination.
In the image, Nicole and Rhett’s meeting place was evident. What drew Jarrod’s attention was a medication box lying in the corner.
Jarrod knew Nicole faced health problems, but the medication’s name was unfamiliar and unrelated to her known stomach treatments. Instead, it appeared to be…
Jarrod’s mind began connecting the dots, tuning out Rhett’s conversation.
Rhett continued speaking, but Jarrod suddenly stood up and declared, “You can leave now.”
Rhett was momentarily speechless. Stunned for a few seconds, he persisted, “Mr. Schultz, please reconsider. What could be more crucial than a child’s healthy psychological development?”
Paying no heed to Rhett’s words, Jarrod approached his desk, activated the intercom, and instructed, “Escort Mr. Bates out.”
The assistant promptly arrived and courteously led Rhett away. Despite this, Rhett maintained his professionalism, urging Jarrod to reconsider and prevent further escalation.
Jarrod entered the medication’s name into his computer. The photograph Rhett had presented only centered on the agreement, with the drug barely visible in the corner, displaying only part of its name. He typed the remembered letters, and the search results identified it as a drug used for terminating early pregnancies.
Early pregnancy… Jarrod was taken aback by those words. He sat at his computer, unaware of his assistant’s initial efforts to get his attention for a meeting. “Mr. Schultz, the meeting is awaiting you…”
Before the assistant could finish, Jarrod cut in, “Check Nicole’s recent movements, especially at the hospital.”
The assistant nodded. “Right away. And the meeting?”
“Cancel it,” Jarrod replied without hesitation.
The assistant found himself momentarily silenced, observing Jarrod’s impulsive actions with surprise.
Upon the assistant’s departure, Jarrod fixed his gaze on the computer screen, lost in contemplation, his brow knit with concentration. He pondered whether his suspicions were unfounded and overly distrustful.
Later that evening, at the bar.
Seated in a booth, Jarrod awaited the fashionably late Cornell.
With a snort, Jarrod remarked, “It’s increasingly challenging to catch up with you these days.”
In a composed tone, Cornell responded, “Bars no longer suit my preferences. My children object to the odor upon my return. Let’s rendezvous at a restaurant next time.”
Luis, seated nearby, couldn’t resist jesting, “You’ve transformed into the epitome of a devoted husband. It’s almost too perfect; I’m getting goosebumps.”
“Enough with the banter,” Cornell retorted frostily.
“What are your thoughts on the Watts family situation?” Jarrod inquired, cutting right to the chase.
“I endorse the project since it’s a quasi-philanthropic initiative, aligning seamlessly with the Clement Group’s future trajectory,” Cornell said plainly.
“There are myriad charitable endeavors. Why opt for one involving Roscoe? Are you attempting to fracture our fraternity?” Jarrod’s tone turned frosty.
Cornell maintained his silence.
Luis attempted to diffuse the tension. “Come on, gentlemen. It’s been six months since we last gathered, and you’re already at odds? Let’s keep it light.”
Luis served drinks for Cornell and Jarrod, remarking, “You’re at my place to unwind. No business discussions allowed.”
But Cornell declined, pushing the drink aside. “Audrey prohibits me from drinking.”
Luis was rendered speechless. With a dramatic sigh, he exclaimed, “Cornell, you’re hopeless! You came here solely to flaunt your happiness.”
“If I drink, I won’t be allowed to share a bed with her tonight,” Cornell replied calmly.
“Enough!” Luis exclaimed, clutching his chest in mock agony. “We understand you’re under the thumb. Stop flaunting it.”
Undeterred by Luis’ jests, Cornell locked eyes with Jarrod. “Jarrod, you’ve always been my pal, but I cannot condone your business practices. Roscoe’s project benefits the public. Regardless of your motives, suppressing him is unjust.”
Jarrod retorted, “And what would you know?”
Cornell said evenly, “I understand you assume my stance is influenced by Nicole’s request to Audrey, right?” He knew very well that Jarrod’s irritation stemmed from Nicole’s involvement.
“Yet, have you contemplated why Nicole is inclined to assist Roscoe?” Cornell posed the question.
Jarrod fell silent, pondering.
“As I comprehend it, Roscoe holds feelings for Nicole but has respected boundaries. He silently supported her, especially during her time as a single mother. It’s only natural for Nicole to express gratitude,” Cornell articulated.
“Nicole feels indebted to Roscoe and wants to spare him suffering. That sentiment is understandable. But have you considered your role? Are you unintentionally driving Nicole away?”
Cornell’s concern emanated from genuine friendship.
After a prolonged silence, Jarrod finally spoke. “What significance does my affection hold if her heart remains distant?”
“Perhaps your approach is the issue,” Cornell commented. He understood Jarrod intimately. Jarrod’s pride often clouded his judgment, rendering his attempts at reconciliation impersonal and distant.
“You mean well, but your proximity might obscure your vision. Try to empathize with her. Recall how you treated Jamie when you saw her as your savior? You were more forgiving then,” Cornell explained.
“Nicole possesses keen insight into people. If Roscoe had the same flaws as Jamie, she wouldn’t extend her aid. Roscoe is different, and Nicole’s compassion motivates her assistance. If they truly desired each other, they would have united already. Their hesitation indicates one thing.”
Cornell paused before continuing, “Nicole’s feelings for Roscoe might be more rooted in gratitude than love. Your actions could inadvertently drive her further away.”
Jarrod remained silent. Never before had anyone told him these truths. He kept his thoughts private, refraining from engaging in discussions on such matters. Cornell possessed a profound understanding of the dynamics between him and Nicole. His words held significant weight.
In his final assessment, Cornell stated, “Should you truly find it within yourself to release Nicole, then disregard my counsel and proceed as usual. However, if you find it impossible, refrain from actions that inflict harm upon her.”
Observing Jarrod’s silent response, Cornell glimpsed a glimmer of hope.
With heartfelt sincerity, Cornell stated, “Even if a romantic bond with Nicole isn’t feasible, nurturing another form of connection is imperative. She remains the mother of your child, a constant that transcends circumstances. Have you considered the emotional toll inflicted by separating your child from her? Have you ever inquired whether your child yearns to reunite with his mother?”
This query resonated deeply within Jarrod.
Though Austin refrained from outward defiance, his silence toward Jarrod was resolute. Within the confines of their home, the atmosphere was subdued, with Austin’s demeanor notably solemn.
Austin harbored apprehension, recognizing the futility of his words in altering their dynamic, choosing silence as his recourse. The fewer words, he believed, the better. The housekeeper had observed Austin’s prolonged periods of wordlessness, a troubling sign.
Cornell discerned from Jarrod’s countenance that his words had struck a chord.