Chapter 1072

Skylar echoed, “Lizzie?”

Joe responded, “Yeah.”

“Okay, I’ll go upstairs to change my clothes,” Skylar said, glancing down at her soft pink loungewear. It felt childish; fine for home, but inappropriate for guests.

A few minutes later, she descended the stairs. Lizzie, a talented violinist with artistic charm and striking beauty, turned as she heard Skylar’s footsteps. Her eyes brightened upon seeing Skylar.

Joe, standing nearby, coolly interjected, “That’s my wife.”

Lizzie’s expression softened slightly, but her gaze remained fixed on Skylar as she introduced herself: “Hello, Mrs. Martin, I’m Lizzie Garza.”

“Hello, I’m Skylar Sullivan,” Skylar replied, extending her hand.

Before their hands met, Joe grasped Skylar’s, saying, “Let’s go sit and talk.”

Lizzie raised an eyebrow, surprised by Joe’s protectiveness. Skylar offered Lizzie an apologetic smile. Once seated, Lizzie stated her purpose directly.

“I came to explain that my engagement to Joe is strategic. We haven’t interacted much privately, but I’m a college classmate of Paul’s.”

Lizzie’s forthrightness surprised Skylar, who instantly understood Joe’s plan. She smiled and nodded. “I understand. He mentioned it.”

“Mrs. Martin, you’re beautiful, and your smile is even more stunning,” Lizzie said candidly. “Few girls captivate like you at first glance.”

Joe coolly raised an eyebrow, his gaze impassive. Lizzie pretended not to notice.

“I heard you’re a talented violinist, Ms. Garza, and have hosted many concerts. That’s impressive,” Skylar complimented. She had researched Lizzie online after going upstairs; news of her was everywhere. The information confirmed Lizzie’s genuine talent—she was one of the best in Jipsburg. However, her personal life, particularly romantic relationships, remained largely private. The only recent news was her engagement to Joe, sparking widespread speculation about their relationship—speculation that yielded no clues. They had kept their relationship remarkably secret.

Now, Skylar understood Lizzie’s connection to Paul.

“I happened to bring my violin. Would you like to hear me play?” Lizzie asked playfully. She rarely performed privately due to her temperament, but felt an unusual connection with Skylar, an urge to indulge her.

Skylar’s eyes lit up. “That would be wonderful.”

Joe’s expression darkened.

Lizzie retrieved her violin and played one of her signature pieces for Skylar and Joe. Skylar was captivated. Even Joe, despite his dislike for Lizzie, had to acknowledge her impressive performance.

At that moment, Vera, having arrived by car, reached for the doorbell. However, she paused, hearing the clear, resonant sound of a violin echoing from within.