Chapter 1162
Skylar listened quietly as Lizzie recounted her past with Muriel. Lizzie had actively pursued Muriel, a proactive approach that brought them together. Many admired Muriel, including Paul, but he never competed with Lizzie. Their relationship was mutually inspiring, and they excelled in their field. Unfortunately, they eventually parted ways, the reason for which Lizzie did not disclose. For ten minutes, a painful silence hung in the air, Lizzie’s gaze filled with sorrow and longing.
“If I hadn’t gotten involved with her back then,” Lizzie lamented, “she definitely wouldn’t be in this situation today.”
Skylar offered comfort. “We all need to look forward. Muriel still carries the light of pursuing her dreams. She has never given up.” Skylar contrasted Muriel's resilience with those who, compromised and defeated, drift through life like zombies. Muriel, however, bravely forged ahead, steadily moving toward her goals. Her continued dedication to jewelry design, and her persistence in selling at the night market, showcased this unwavering spirit. Skylar admired Muriel's steadfast commitment to her aspirations despite adversity.
Lizzie, initially surprised by Skylar's words, smiled and nodded. “She looks fragile, but once she makes up her mind about something, she never backs down.” Lizzie's affection for Muriel was undeniable, the intense emotions of years past still lingering, irreplaceable. Many had pursued Muriel, but once someone claimed a place in her heart, no other presence, however dazzling, could compare.
Skylar stayed with Lizzie until midnight, then drove her home. By the time Skylar arrived home, it was 2:00 AM. Joe should still have been awake. After showering, she checked her phone. Hours earlier, before dinner with Steven and Mona, she had texted Joe about his flight schedule for the next day, wanting to know his arrival time, but he hadn't replied.
He must have been busy. His rushed departure and hurried return due to the terrorist attack likely left him little time to check his phone. Skylar resisted calling him. She then checked the news about the Murida terrorist attack; the situation appeared calmer.
After a good night's sleep, she woke at dawn and immediately checked her phone. Still no response from Joe. Unease settled in her heart, and she worried. She messaged Paul, inquiring about their flight schedule and landing time. She wasn't sure if they were busy or still on the plane. Like Joe, Paul hadn't replied after half an hour.
She checked the flight status from Murida; flights were scheduled for the mid-afternoon and late afternoon. The lack of replies from Joe and Paul made relaxation impossible. She spent the entire day at home, but despite waiting for two flights to arrive, Joe still hadn't called.