Chapter 1002

Jenny’s eyes welled up from the belittling. She didn't think she was that bad. While she might not possess Skylar's expertise in appraising and restoring antiques—the skills that kept Gloria happy—she was kind, pure, and quite pretty. Her fresh appearance could easily attract talent scouts. She felt she was in no way inferior.

“Mr. Martin, I truly can’t continue. Please find someone else. There must be many models or actresses in Jipsburg willing to accompany you,” Jenny stated.

Edwin, however, was impatient. “How many of those women are truly innocent? You have no idea how many men they’ve been with. You’re different.” He wasn’t sure why, but lately, he found himself thinking about her more. She was young, attractive, and adept at pleasing men. Perhaps men his age were drawn to such youthful women.

Jenny took a deep breath and turned to leave. “I really can’t!”

“If you dare walk out, I’ll ensure Rowan sees the photos of you meeting me tomorrow. Consider the consequences,” Edwin threatened, a smirk playing on his lips.

Jenny’s expression shifted dramatically. “Mr. Martin.”

“It’s not as if you haven’t done this before. Stop pretending. Once you’re married to Rowan, I won’t bother you. Afterward, I’ll transfer a sum of money. You’ll only benefit. Think it through,” Edwin said. He had a knack for handling young women like her. They might resist verbally, but a little pressure usually sufficed.

Jenny froze. She dared not risk it. She knew Edwin would follow through on his threat. She looked back at Edwin. “You said that as long as I marry Rowan, you won’t come after me anymore.”

“I always keep my word,” Edwin replied.

In Fachington, Skylar and Joe enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon. They returned to their hotel after dinner, as night had fallen. Skylar, still enjoying herself, looked through photos on her phone: pictures with Joe, solo shots, and many candid shots of the scenery. After a day of walking, her feet ached.

“Want to take a shower?” Joe asked, noticing Skylar’s continued phone engagement.

After finishing her photos and a chat with Charles, Skylar looked up. “You go ahead. I’ll talk to Charles a little longer.”

“Okay.”

Minutes later, the shower started. Skylar glanced at the bathroom door, seeing Joe’s shadow through the frosted glass. Pausing briefly, she returned to her phone and continued chatting with Charles, who had just finished a film project and was taking a week off before his next role.

Charles texted, “I’ve transferred some money. Buy any bag you like. Get another one for yourself—it’s on me.” He’d noticed many female celebrities favored specific bags, and he thought they looked great. Having intended to buy one for Skylar, he wanted to ensure she got one now that he could afford it.

Skylar smiled warmly. “Charles, I earn my own money now. If I like a bag, I can buy it myself. Save your money for when you find a wife.”

Charles replied, “I’m focused on my career and not thinking about marriage. Be prepared—I may never marry.” He wasn’t joking; his career commitment was serious.