Chapter 1109

"Ms. Garza," Skylar said, "I just heard from Joe about your family's situation. I need to see it firsthand to understand. If it's convenient, I can come tomorrow."

Lizzie replied, "I'm home now, so anytime works. I really appreciate you coming. I'll pick you up at the airport tomorrow."

Considering Joe and Lizzie's current circumstances, Skylar quickly added, "No need. Just send me your address, and I'll take a cab."

"It's no trouble," Lizzie insisted. "Don't worry about being seen. Nobody knows I've left Jipsburg. You're coming all this way; I'm not letting you take a cab. It's settled, then. See you tomorrow." Lizzie left Skylar no room to refuse.

After the call, Skylar packed a few things. The next morning, Lucas picked up both her and Joe, dropping Skylar at the airport first. Joe couldn't take time off and remained in Jipsburg. Skylar would meet Lizzie alone.

Just before leaving the car, Joe kissed her deeply, holding her for a long moment. When she stepped out, her lips were swollen and her face flushed. Fortunately, she had a mask in her bag. She quickly put it on, lowered her head, and entered the terminal.

"My lips are completely numb," she muttered to herself, still slightly lightheaded from the lack of oxygen.

Two hours later, after boarding and settling in, someone appeared.

"Mrs. Martin."

Startled by the familiar voice, Skylar looked up. "Paul?"

Paul grinned. "Surprised? Mr. Martin was worried about you traveling alone."

By the time she reached Adaver, she would essentially be in Lizzie's territory. The Garzas were Adaver's most prominent family, so Skylar was unlikely to encounter trouble. Furthermore, few people knew about Skylar and Joe's marriage. To the outside world, Joe's fiancée was still Lizzie, making her the target of attention and gossip.

However, Lizzie was far from fragile. Anyone challenging her courted disaster.

Paul considered the trip a welcome vacation. It was a rare opportunity to relax.

"That makes sense," Skylar said, gesturing for him to sit.

Paul smiled. "Adaver is known for its food, including your favorite—fondue. I know some great places. Lizzie took me a few times in college; just thinking about it makes my mouth water."

Joe had asked Paul to accompany Skylar, not only for protection but also for another, almost embarrassing reason. Joe was overprotective around Lizzie, worried she might somehow tempt Skylar. This was illogical; Lizzie was devoted to someone else, and even if she weren't, it was unlikely she'd pursue Skylar.

Skylar smiled. "Once the Garza family's situation is resolved, I'll treat you."

Paul grinned. "Deal. I'll choose the place."

With Paul's lively conversation, the flight flew by. Skylar didn't feel bored and learned about the Garza family. They had two children—Lizzie and her brother, Herman. The family business rested on Herman's shoulders; Lizzie had no interest in corporate life.

Lizzie had been passionate about music since childhood. Consequently, her parents, Carl Garza and Winona Parham, placed all their hopes on Herman.

For a long time, he lived up to their expectations. He was brilliant and capable, and his parents were nearing retirement. But suddenly, Herman changed.

They consulted renowned doctors worldwide and conducted thorough health checks. He was physically healthy; the only potential issue was psychological, but even top therapists couldn't help.

The past year had been filled with worry for Carl and Winona, visibly aging them. Even Lizzie considered giving up her violin career.

By the time the plane landed, Paul had explained the Garza family's troubles to Skylar.

After collecting her luggage, Skylar saw Lizzie waiting at arrivals.