Chapter 1070

Not long after, Ernest arrived, hoping to persuade Gloria to convince Joe to call off his engagement. He insisted Joe, having divorced Skylar, should marry a reputable Jipsburg socialite. While acknowledging Lizzie’s good background, Ernest deemed her unsuitable.

Gloria listened patiently before waving him away. “If he disregarded the wife I arranged, do you think my words matter? Don't bother coming to me again. I'm tired.” She then dismissed Ernest.

Seeing her resolve, Ernest departed, feeling his efforts were futile. He was also under pressure from Denton, whose friendship from their youth now obligated Ernest to help him marry Vera to Joe. The recent turmoil caused by Joe's son and grandson had rendered Joe unhelpful, leading Ernest to suspect Joe's orchestration of these events. Joe's increasing disregard for Ernest's authority further infuriated him.

At the hospital entrance, Claudio approached Ernest. "Grandpa, is Joe's divorce from Skylar confirmed?"

Ernest nodded gravely. "Yes. His grandmother is even more unwell; Skylar was her chosen granddaughter-in-law."

Claudio's eyes gleamed. Captivated by Skylar's beauty since their first meeting, he now saw an opportunity. With Joe's protection gone, he envisioned pursuing her.

Skylar, finally checking her phone, saw multiple missed calls from Natalie. Joe had silenced her phone. Ignoring Vera’s message, she returned Natalie’s call.

Natalie, before Skylar could speak, launched into an angry tirade. “Damn it! Joe’s a jerk! In Fachington, he was involved with Vera, and now, days after returning, he’s engaged to someone else while still married to you! Is he insane?

“He’s a player! You, Skylar, are gorgeous; Vera and Lizzie can’t compare. He’s barely known you and doesn’t value you. There are hardly any good men. Don’t be sad over him! Get a divorce and move in with me.

“Let’s cut him out of your life. He wants to play the field? So can you! He’s getting engaged today; tomorrow, I’ll help you find a boyfriend. Remember Elliott, the detective? He’s been smitten with you since you met, even ignoring blind dates. He's waiting for you! I trust him. Tomorrow, I’ll have him come over.”

Unbeknownst to Skylar, Joe stood silently nearby. Natalie's loud voice carried, and Joe heard every word. His eyes narrowed when she mentioned Elliott.

Turning to Skylar, he asked, "Elliott, the detective?"

Skylar’s lips twitched. Cutting off Natalie, she said, “I’ll explain later.”

Natalie, now crying, exclaimed, “Skye… I’m so upset for you! How can you stay so calm?”