Chapter 1098

After leaving the bathroom, Skylar texted Joe: "Beast." She’d just seen the marks he’d left on her body in the mirror; anything not hidden would need concealing before going out. A call came in immediately. Recognizing Aiken’s number, she answered.

“Mr. Parkinson.”

“I’ve found Madam Viola, but you need to see her yourself,” Aiken said.

“What? You found her? Wonderful! Where is she? I’ll be right there. Wait, I need to get Grandma Gloria and Mr. Gardner Senior. They’ll want to see her too,” Skylar exclaimed, her voice brimming with excitement. She missed Viola terribly and had so much to tell her, so many questions to ask.

“You should come alone first. I’ll wait for you at Oakdale Hospital.” Aiken’s voice remained steady.

It sounded normal, yet a growing unease settled in Skylar’s heart. She dressed quickly.

On the drive to the hospital, Skylar’s mind raced. Was Viola ill? Had she gone alone to avoid worrying them? Why the silence? Countless possibilities swirled. Aiken’s tone suggested something more complicated than she’d anticipated.

Oakdale Hospital was far; the journey took a full hour. Parking underground, she hurried to the first-floor elevator. Despite the hospital’s bustle, she spotted Aiken instantly.

“Mr. Parkinson.”

Aiken saw her anxiety and felt a pang of sympathy.

“Where is Grandma Viola?” Skylar asked immediately, seeing he didn’t speak.

Aiken inhaled deeply. “Promise me, no matter what you see, you’ll remain calm.”

Skylar’s heart clenched. A premonition washed over her, but she quickly dismissed it. Viola was in a hospital, surrounded by skilled doctors; even if sick, they’d surely help.

“Okay, I promise. Don’t worry, I’ll stay calm,” Skylar affirmed.

“Follow me.” Aiken nodded, though the concern in his eyes didn’t diminish. Indeed, it intensified.

Chapter 1098

He hadn’t anticipated this outcome. Knowing Viola’s importance to Skylar, he realized the difficulty she would face accepting what lay ahead.

They entered the elevator; he pressed the button for the basement. The descent, though brief, felt interminable.

A chill gripped Skylar as she stepped out, causing her to instinctively pull her clothing closer. Her throat tightened. That ominous feeling intensified with each step. She wanted to ask Aiken something, but her throat constricted; her heartbeat slowed; no words came.

They reached the morgue.

Chapter 1099