Chapter 1039

Joe said nothing, glancing at Skylar, who slept soundly. He glared at Howard, signaling him to change the IV and leave.

Howard took the hint, speeding up his work. He wanted to leave; who enjoyed being a third wheel?

Downstairs, the two men stared at each other. Howard began, "Have we been worrying over nothing? They didn't need our concern." Paul nodded.

Skylar hadn't expected to fall asleep. She'd sat on the floor, head resting on the bed, her hands clasped together. She must have been exhausted to fall asleep in such an uncomfortable position. She silently critiqued herself, but her eyes met Joe's before she could continue. His dark eyes revealed nothing of his thoughts.

"How are you feeling?" Skylar asked, her gaze drifting to the night view outside. How long had she been asleep? The IV had already been removed.

Joe said hoarsely, "I'm alright."

"That's great. Mr. Ziegler and Dr. Grey are downstairs. I'll go get him to take a look at you," Skylar said, rising.

"They've left. I'm fine," Joe replied. The thought of Skylar seeing his vulnerability ignited a furious burn within him.

As Skylar stood, she noticed their joined hands, a fantasy striking her—as if no one could ever separate them. Joe followed her gaze. Seeing their hands, he thought Skylar didn't want him to touch her, and released her hand. Skylar stared thoughtfully at her now empty palm.

"I didn't ask Paul to call you," Joe added.

Skylar replied, her face pale, "Yeah, I know. They don't know we're getting divorced yet."

"So... did you rush over immediately after Paul's call because you were worried about me? Or was it because you love me?" Joe studied Skylar, like a hunter who'd seen through his prey's disguise. She was his prey. Her heart, he thought, could be stone cold.

Skylar met his gaze, her heartbeat accelerating. He was…

"Is there a difference between worrying about you and loving you?" Skylar asked.

Joe chuckled. "There is a difference. You could be worrying about me because of Gloria. However, if you value me that much, you're in love with me."

"Are you in love with me?" he pressed.

Skylar's ears rang. Had he realized she loved him? Or had she revealed her secret while asleep?