Chapter 1025

Skylar knew Alexander didn't quite believe her explanation, but revealing her rebirth was impossible.

“It doesn’t matter when I started considering a divorce. Once Grandma is better, in a few days, I plan to leave Jipsburg for a while. I've already resigned from Gardner Senior.”

Skylar lowered her head, avoiding Joe’s gaze. She ate some steak before answering.

Joe's expression changed. He was shocked by Skylar's decision to leave Jipsburg and quit her job. He stared intently at her, searching her eyes for any lingering attachment to him or Gloria.

“You’re that eager to escape me?” he asked, a mocking smile playing on his lips.

“It’s not that. I’ve never wanted to escape you,” Skylar replied instantly.

“Or are you afraid I’ll stop you from being with Aiken?” Joe pressed.

Skylar said softly, “My decision to divorce has nothing to do with anyone else. Being with you was a mistake from the beginning. If I hadn't made that phone call, none of this would have happened. It’s my fault.”

Afterward, Skylar stood. “I’m full. I’m going home. Tomorrow—I’ll see you at the courthouse.”

Joe watched her leave before shifting his gaze. He remained silent for a long time, then called Paul. “Find out who Skylar has been meeting recently.”

Paul agreed. Joe was about to call Alexander when Paul added, “Mr. Martin, before you go, I’ve received new information. The person monitoring Molly reported that, before you and Mrs. Martin left Jipsburg, Molly met with Ms. Ruell. Lately, Molly’s been at the spa or shopping at high-end boutiques. No suspicious meetings, only with Jipsburg socialites. But her meeting with Ms. Ruell wasn't casual. Molly even gave Ms. Ruell a gift; we don't know what yet. I suspect she gave Ms. Ruell… something compromising.”

Joe immediately thought of Vera’s emerald ring. A sharp pain lanced through his head. He rubbed his temples. “Keep following up,” he said, frowning.

“Understood.”

After hanging up, Joe drank some water, waiting for the headache to subside. He then called Alexander.

“I knew you’d call. Skye must have mentioned the divorce, right?” Alexander sighed before Joe could speak. He understood Skylar; she’d bear this burden alone. And realistically, it seemed she had no choice.

To outsiders like Alexander, they wielded significant influence in Jipsburg. Their words carried weight, but in Skylar's situation, their power was useless.

Joe’s expression darkened. “She told you?”

“I heard about the divorce days ago. Joe, I see you care about Skye. You don’t want this divorce, do you? You’re curious why she insists on it, aren’t you?” Alexander’s voice held weary resignation.

“Do you know the real reason she’s determined to divorce me?” Joe asked. He realized Skylar's insistence wasn't simply about Aiken or dissatisfaction; something else was at play.

Alexander sighed deeply. “If she hasn’t told you, it means she doesn’t want you to know. Maybe it’s better that you don’t.” Knowing the truth sometimes brought more pain than peace. Viola’s words echoed—they weren’t destined to be together; they should never have married.

Chapter 1026

At that thought, Alexander continued, “Skye mentioned her resignation to me, and I agreed. If she returns, I’ll invite her back. Regarding your grandmother, don't tell her anything yet. The last thing she needs is trouble between you and Skye. I’ll tell her Skye's been assigned an important task requiring her absence from Jipsburg.”

Joe understood. Skylar had a secret, and Alexander wouldn't reveal it. He didn't press.

Joe tapped his desk after putting down his phone. He suddenly called Paul. “Call me tomorrow morning at nine sharp.”

Paul was confused. “Call you? Is there something you need me to remind you about at nine tomorrow, Mr. Martin?”

“Yes, say it’s urgent,” Joe replied calmly.

“Huh? Alright.”

After leaving the restaurant, Skylar returned to Galaxy Villa. She had dinner and began packing. She couldn't take everything; people from Pearlhall Residence frequently visited, and she needed to leave some belongings to avoid suspicion about her relationship with Joe.

Around 10:00 pm, as she finished packing, Natalie called.

“Skye, I’ll be back in Jipsburg next week. Mr. Powell’s filming ends in a couple of days. After the wrap party, we’ll return.” Natalie’s voice was excited.

Skylar smiled. “I’ll give you a proper welcome.” The timing was perfect; she planned to see Natalie before leaving Jipsburg.

Over the next few days, Skylar would tell Janine and the others. For now, she’d keep the divorce secret to avoid unnecessary worry. Alexander had offered her a six-month job in Murida—her chance to leave Jipsburg behind.

“Hey, why do you sound off? Did Joe give you a hard time?” Natalie’s sharp intuition sensed something was amiss.

Skylar smiled, concealing the truth. “Do I look easily bullied? I’ve had a cold since Fachington. My throat’s sore, and I’m taking medicine.”

“Oh, just a cold. Take care. If it worsens, see a doctor,” Natalie said, relieved.

Skylar reassured her. “It’s almost gone. I’ll be ready to welcome you back.”

“Great! See you then.”

After Natalie hung up, Kate called.