Chapter 1077

Outside the mall, Vera called Jeremy. He answered immediately.

"Mr. Hughes, it's Vera. I just saw your ex-wife at the mall."

Jeremy's initial courtesy vanished at the mention of Natalie. He raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"

"She's been acting recklessly. Even though she's your ex-wife, you might want to remind her to be more careful," Vera offered, attempting helpful advice.

Jeremy's face darkened. "Who did she offend?"

Vera quickly explained the situation. "At this rate, she's likely to be exploited."

"Which mall?" Jeremy asked sharply.

Vera immediately provided the location. She knew their circle couldn't afford reputational damage, and she anticipated Jeremy would confront Natalie.

However, Jeremy's response stunned her. "She can say whatever she wants around me. Vera, don't act superior. I know your family's situation well. If you cause her any trouble, don't expect mercy." His tone was cold and measured.

Vera was speechless, her eyes wide with disbelief. She'd never expected such a defense of his ex-wife. The fierceness of his protection, coupled with their divorce, seemed utterly paradoxical. He was threatening her over someone no longer in his life. It felt surreal.

"Jeremy, I was only trying to help. Is this really necessary?" Vera snapped, hanging up before he could reply.

Humiliated, she stood on the sidewalk, feeling a wave of confusion. Lately, she felt everyone was attacking her, leaving her feeling worthless.

Vera, a woman who had lived with pride for over twenty years, felt utterly defeated. Neither Skylar nor Natalie had any reason to treat her so disrespectfully, especially given Natalie's situation after her separation from Jeremy. She deserved at least basic courtesy, she thought.

Her phone rang.

"Mr. Martin is at the golf course on the outskirts of town. You should go quickly."

Vera's eyes lit up. "Understood."

Meanwhile, Skylar and Natalie were in a vintage boutique, trying on dresses. An hour flew by.

Natalie selected three dresses, beaming. "These are amazing! I'll wear them for a photoshoot in Beckton."

Skylar agreed. "Are you free this weekend? We could stay a couple of days, buy more outfits, and take lots of pictures."

It was the perfect opportunity to leave Jipsburg and allow others to relax their guard. Earlier, before leaving the Yancey Residence, Skylar had received a call from Aiken. He reported losing contact with Viola; she'd vanished. He'd also asked about Skylar's situation, but she couldn't divulge much, only assuring him she was fine. Viola's disappearance confirmed her and Joe's suspicions. Now, they just needed the person behind it to make their move.

Natalie enthusiastically nodded. "Mr. Powell's been on break for days and gave me several days off. I'll buy the other two dresses and find matching shoes. I'm so excited about the photos!"

Skylar paid for Natalie's dresses. Upon returning, she was startled to see Jeremy entering the store.