Chapter 1056

Skylar explained, "You misunderstood. I'm planning to visit Grandma Viola's place in the countryside."

The tension in Joe's dark eyes eased at her explanation. The frustration in his chest gave way to relief.

"When are you leaving?" he asked.

"Tomorrow," Skylar responded.

Joe didn't ask further questions, though his lowered gaze suggested he was thinking. Skylar went upstairs to change. When she returned, Joe had just hung up the phone.

He turned to her. "I had Paul book train tickets. I'll go with you tomorrow," Joe announced.

"What?" Skylar was surprised. "You're going with me to the countryside?"

"Yeah, is there a problem?" Joe's expression remained calm.

She shook her head. "No, not really. But the countryside isn't exactly comfortable. Are you sure you can handle it?"

Joe raised an eyebrow, his voice cold but determined. "What can't I handle?"

"Fine. But I've already bought my ticket. We might not even sit together on the train—" Skylar began, but Joe interrupted.

"It's just over an hour by train. I don't need to sit," he said firmly.

He'd even considered standing. Skylar knew he was determined to join her, no matter what.

Afterwards, Skylar dealt with the ring, then she and Joe packed. Since shopping in the countryside wasn't convenient, they brought enough clothes and essentials. By the time they finished, it was past midnight.

After breakfast the next day, they headed to the train station. Skylar informed Gloria of their plans. Gloria assumed they were simply relaxing and cheerfully suggested a dinner together upon their return.

Skylar also called Janine, informing her of the trip. Since their arrival in Jipsburg, they hadn't been back to the countryside, and Janine wanted a few things from home. She reminded Skylar to bring some items back and check the house for any problems.

Once on the train, Skylar noticed the seat next to her was empty; the person hadn't shown up. Joe took the seat, and no one claimed it.

Skylar realized Joe hadn't likely traveled on such a crowded, older train before. The train was full, and the seats were cramped. Facing strangers wasn't a problem for her, but it was probably uncomfortable for Joe; she sensed his slight impatience.

The weak phone signal made streaming difficult. Seeing Joe's growing frustration, Skylar suggested, "I downloaded a movie beforehand. Do you want to watch it together?"

The trip took about an hour—just enough time to finish the movie. Joe simply nodded, maintaining his usual cool demeanor.

Skylar handed Joe a Bluetooth earbud, and they watched together. Time flew by, and soon they arrived.

The platform was crowded. Joe held Skylar close, protecting her from the jostling. Across the street was the bus terminal. Skylar had refunded her train ticket and bought two bus tickets for a departure half an hour later.

By midday, they reached the bus terminal. While waiting, Skylar bought two burritos. There wasn't much to eat, but these were a decent option.

Skylar glanced at Joe, unsure if he'd like them. "Give it a try. If you don't like it, I have sandwiches in my bag," she offered.