Chapter 108

The real attention-grabbers at the party were Joe and Annie, a lovely duo. Their presence eclipsed everyone else; all eyes were on them. They were the perfect couple, stealing the limelight.

Natalie texted: "See that? They showed up together at John's engagement party again. They're definitely more than friends, right? I asked my husband, but he told me not to pry into Joe's business."

She continued: "But I still think you're the prettiest. Annie is pretty, but she's no match for you, Skye. You have that captivating charm, like a siren who can steal anyone's breath away!"

Skylar read Natalie's increasingly ridiculous messages, glancing at the photo again. She felt uneasy. To repay her debts to Gloria, she had inadvertently become a pawn in Joe and Annie's relationship, playing the role of a mistress.

Now she understood Joe's cold, distant attitude. He already had someone.

Later that night, just before bed, Skylar received a call from Alexander's team. They apologized for the late hour, explaining they had overlooked her résumé during the screening process and missed her interview. They wanted to interview her the next day, if she was available.

Despite her low spirits after learning about Joe and Annie, the call brightened her mood. She was also meeting with the auction house the following day. She decided to interview with Alexander's team in the morning before her afternoon meeting. Alexander's team had high standards, and she wasn't sure she'd be selected.

Feeling optimistic, Skylar shared the good news with Janine and Steven. They wished her luck, assuring her she was the best, regardless of the outcome. Their support bolstered her confidence. She fell asleep smiling.

The next morning, while making breakfast, Skylar noticed Joe hadn't returned home. This didn't surprise her. Natalie had mentioned Annie's recent return from abroad (less than a month ago). It made sense they'd want to spend time together after such a long separation.

Finishing breakfast and heading out, Skylar glanced back at Galaxy Villa. She needed an excuse to move out and tell Gloria she was busy with work. This would allow her to end the impromptu marriage arrangement with Joe without causing a fuss.

Joe woke with a pounding headache. He'd drunk heavily the previous night and ended up sleeping on the Gardners' yacht. Almost everyone at the engagement party did the same.

He rubbed his temples, remembering something, and immediately called Paul. Paul, also on the yacht, was already awake and answered quickly.

"Mr. Martin, are we leaving the yacht now?" Paul asked.

Joe frowned. "Did you tell Skylar I was back in town?"

"No, Mr. Martin," Paul replied, surprised. He hadn't been instructed to update Skylar.

Joe's expression darkened. "Then tell her."

"Got it, Mr. Martin," Paul replied.

"Wait, never mind. Forget it," Joe said, suddenly changing his mind.

Paul was confused. Was Joe trying to contact Skylar or not?

Joe looked at his phone. He'd been out of town for over a week, and Skylar hadn't contacted him once. His expression grew darker.