Chapter 1000

Vera seemed to notice Skylar's gaze and quickly hid her hand under the table, her wide sleeves concealing her fingers. Her heart sank. How could she forget the ring? She should have removed it the moment she saw Skylar. Did Skylar notice it? Possibly not; Skylar wore several rings, including one on her index finger, so Vera's might not have been conspicuous.

"It's okay. I already have plans," Skylar declined, averting her gaze from Vera's hand. Vera had moved too quickly for Skylar to see clearly, but it appeared to be an emerald ring, old and somewhat familiar. However, most emerald rings look similar, and Skylar's glimpse was insufficient for detailed observation.

Vera didn't seem upset by Skylar's refusal. Turning to Joe, she asked, "What about you, Joe? Do you have plans today?"

Skylar, having heard enough, left. As she departed, she overheard Joe say, "I already have plans with her. Weren't you feeling unwell yesterday? Get some rest."

Vera seemed unsatisfied. "I sent you several messages yesterday, but you didn't reply. Were you really busy?" she asked, again revealing the ring now that Skylar was gone. Molly had instructed her to display the ring frequently around Joe for it to be effective.

Joe merely hummed noncommittally.

"Alright then. I'll rest at the hotel today. Actually, I really wanted to visit the places we used to go together. But I'm returning to Jipsburg in a few days, and I'm not sure when we'll meet again," Vera said, her voice tinged with hope and longing. Joe, however, lowered his gaze and remained silent.

Vera's heart pounded. She wasn't sure if the ring would work to deter Joe from seeing Skylar. She couldn't press the conversation further, lest she appear overly eager.

Suddenly, Joe stood, looking down at Vera. "Maybe in a couple of days, if there's time." As he left, he glanced at the ring. "Nice ring."

Vera maintained her composure. "A friend gave it to me. I'm just wearing it for fun." She hadn't expected Joe to notice women's jewelry. But, as Molly had said, there was no harm in him seeing the ring; he wouldn't decipher its significance. In fact, closer inspection would be preferable.

"Are you interested in these accessories?" she asked, subtly lifting her hand.

Joe did look at the ring longer, but his voice was cold when he said, "It might suit Skylar." He then turned and left.

The impact of his words didn't register immediately. But after he left, it hit her.

Chapter 1000

What did he just say? The ring would suit Skylar? He actually said it would suit Skylar? Vera's expression darkened instantly.