Chapter 1140

The statue, ultimately, proved a conduit for the theft of fortunes. Vera, born into wealth and privilege, possessed a natural abundance of good fortune. She knew that leveraging one's luck could not only alter destiny but also prolong life.

“What? So vicious? I had no grudge against Molly, and she did this to me! She deserved to die!” Vera raged. Her increasingly volatile emotions stemmed from a deliberate plot against her. She’d even felt sorry for Molly after the car accident, but now, understanding Molly's treachery, she was consumed by fury. Reflecting calmly, she realized that since wearing the ring Molly gave her, her thoughts had felt controlled, becoming increasingly obsessive. Her ambition to win Joe had always been strong, but this was irrational, utterly unreasonable. Her recent actions chilled her; she'd disgraced her family.

Skylar looked at Vera. “The lost fortune cannot be recovered. Do more charity to build merit. Otherwise, you will suffer ill fortune.” This wasn't just a warning; Vera's greed regarding Molly had exacted a price. Skylar couldn't undo the past, but handling the statue offered a chance for redress.

Vera frowned. “Molly was too cruel!”

Skylar re-wrapped the statue, adding a charm, and prepared to leave. Before departing, she advised, “You should relocate.”

Vera nodded. She possessed numerous properties; losing one mattered little.

As Skylar was leaving, Vera hesitated, then blurted, “Skylar, I understand your feelings now. Honestly, Joe leaving you was his loss. I've investigated Lizzie—she's not your equal. I can accept losing to you, but not to her.” Her words acknowledged their shared misfortune, eliciting a mixture of amusement and exasperation from Skylar. Vera’s complexity surprised Skylar; in that moment, she found a certain endearing quality.

“Just do more charity,” Skylar advised, ending the conversation. Vera’s future actions were no longer her concern.

Vera nodded, though her commitment seemed half-hearted. Charity was effortless for her; sponsoring mountain students, donating to orphanages, attending galas—it would suffice.

After leaving the library, Skylar retrieved her car and the statue. Joe called en route, saying he'd be home soon to discuss Molly's situation. She listened to the radio for a while.

The news covered Molly’s accident; a former movie star and stepmother to the Martin Group CEO, the incident attracted considerable attention. The police concluded drunk driving was the cause, but eyewitness accounts raised suspicions of foul play, fueling rumors of murder. The speculation was so widespread that even the radio host was questioning the official narrative.