Chapter 1661

Chapter 1661:

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“Really, it’s nothing to worry about, Miss Lawrence,” Rhett reassured her with a carefree smile. “Are you here for Austin?”

Shaking her head, Nicole clarified, “No, Austin isn't here. “I actually came to see a friend.”

“A friend?” Rhett was curious. “I didn't know you had any friends in the area. Would it be too intrusive if I came with you?”

His request came unexpectedly, but seemed entirely in keeping with Rhett's affable nature.

Without much thought, Nicole politely declined. “Maybe next time. I just stepped out for a moment. “She’s an old friend, and she’s resting now.”

“Oh,” Rhett agreed. “Do you need a ride?”

“Thanks, but no need,” Nicole responded promptly. “Someone is already on their way to pick me up.”

At that moment Jarrod approached. Dressed in a black trench coat, his imposing stature dominated the space. He said to Nicole simply: “Time to go.”

Unaware of Rhett standing a few feet away, or so it seemed, Jarrod kept his gaze fixed on Nicole. Rhett and Jarrod were already acquainted, but it was Rhett who broke the silence, addressing Jarrod respectfully. “Mr. Schultz.”

Jarrod didn't respond, just nodded slightly, not turning to Rhett.

Sensing the awkwardness, Nicole tried to smooth things over. “I just ran into Mr. Bates,” she mentioned nonchalantly.

Hearing this, Jarrod turned briefly and gave Rhett a dry growl.

Rhett, unfazed and smiling, commented: "It's nice to see the plaintiff and defendant become friends. It's heartwarming."

Jarrod turned around fully, his voice laced with a hint of sarcasm. “Mr. “Bates, don’t you have anything better to do?” His words carried a hint of disdain, suggesting that Rhett was simply entertaining himself.

Unfazed, Rhett replied with a casual smile: “I’ve got a moment. Certainly less busy than you, Mr. Schultz.”

The exchange carried a subtle tension, capturing Nicole's attention.

Given Rhett's previous display of fearlessness towards Jarrod, Nicole tried to avoid further misunderstandings and protect Rhett from their discord.

"Mr. Bates, I have to go now. Let's make plans to see each other soon," she said softly.

“Of course, Miss Lawrence,” Rhett replied, nodding with polite formality. He stood still, watching Nicole and Jarrod leave, his expression thoughtful and calculating.

Determined to visit Callie, Rhett headed to her ward, but was stopped by a police officer. “Sorry, no entry,” the officer informed him firmly.

“My apologies. “I must have taken the wrong turn,” Rhett said calmly.

Then he approached the infirmary and asked in a low voice, "Excuse me, could you help me bandage this?"

Rhett extended the bloody finger, eliciting a gasp from the nurse. As she gathered her supplies, she asked, “Sir, you were fine. “How did this happen?”

A little embarrassed, Rhett replied, “I was just opening a can.”

A nearby nurse laughed. "Mr. Bates, it's hard to believe that someone as skilled as you would injure yourself opening a can."

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