Chapter 1018
The next morning, Skylar awoke with a slightly hoarse throat, a sign of inflammation. Looking in the mirror, she saw puffy, red eyes. After washing her face, she went downstairs and made scrambled eggs and coffee. Joe hadn't returned since their argument about divorce, his displeasure evident. But this couldn't wait; a resolution was necessary. The vivid nightmare from the previous night lingered, a constant reminder of the risk to those she loved. Yet, within the nightmare, she'd felt a comforting presence, a whisper and a reassuring embrace. It must have been a dream. Awakening, it had felt as if Joe were beside her, but the empty space beside her bed proved otherwise.
After preparing herself, she went to Pearlhall Residence. Gloria initially refused to go to the hospital, but Skylar insisted, eventually persuading her for a checkup. Following examinations, the doctor recommended observation, but Gloria declined, opting to wait for the next day's test results. Skylar and Edgar escorted Gloria back to Pearlhall Residence.
That afternoon, Skylar shopped for Janine, picking up essentials. Janine had been extremely busy lately, managing the store's successful expansion into live broadcasts across multiple platforms. Noticing Skylar's unwell appearance, Janine worriedly asked, "Have you been overworking? If it's too much, quit. Our income is stable now; there's no need to push yourself."
Skylar reassured her, "I'm just adjusting to the time difference after returning from abroad. Work isn't exhausting. I haven't slept well, but it's nothing to worry about, Mom." Seeing her family thriving filled Skylar with happiness. She realized she loved Joe, explaining her internal struggle since reading Viola's letter—she didn't want a divorce.
Janine smiled, relieved. "That's good. I was worrying needlessly. You've been gone so long! Tonight, relax and watch TV while I cook your favorite dishes. Where's Joe? Is he off work? Call him; I'll make something he likes, too."
Skylar's gaze faltered. "He's very busy, working late. He can't come tonight. Let's just eat together. I'll bring him over when he's free."
Janine readily agreed. "He must have a lot to catch up on. I'll make dinner; you just relax." Janine's presence alone eased Skylar's mind. Skylar admired her mother's vibrant youthfulness; Janine could easily pass for her early forties. Her fair skin and grace exuded a gentle elegance. If not for her children, Skylar thought, Janine might have found a companion by now; after all, life was only halfway through. Skylar turned on the television, her thoughts drifting as she watched.