Chapter 1164

After Vera finished speaking, she quickly ended the call. She felt Skylar was a good person, and now that Joe had abandoned her, Vera felt sorry for her. Perhaps their shared experience of being cast aside by Joe fueled her sympathy. The difference was Vera's situation was more public; few in Jipsburg knew about Skylar's marriage and subsequent divorce. Clearly, Skylar suffered more from Joe's new relationship.

Considering this, Vera's lingering hostility toward Skylar faded. She even hoped to turn their conflict into friendship.

But Skylar's expression darkened at Vera's warning. She knew Claudio was not a good person, but his declaration of wanting her was despicable and low. He was utterly disgusting.

Taking a deep breath, she calmed her anger. Rising from the couch, she intended to step onto the balcony for fresh air. Just as she began to rise, a wave of dizziness overcame her.

The world dimmed momentarily. She quickly closed her eyes, trying to steady herself. After a while, the dizziness subsided completely. She took a moment to compose herself, breathing deeply. It was likely due to recent stress and lack of rest. The negativity had undoubtedly taken a toll.

Skylar stepped onto the balcony, setting her phone on a small table. The sky had darkened. Nearby and distant skyscrapers glowed with illumination. Under the night sky, the city pulsed with emotion.

Perhaps it was the breeze, but she felt more awake after standing there awhile. In her hand, she held a cup of smoothie—a ready-to-drink variety requiring only cold water. Sometimes, she prepared it at home rather than ordering takeout.

Throughout the day, she'd felt uneasy. Now, her heart felt restless, suspended in her chest. She longed for something significant to grasp, but found nothing. Perhaps it was her concern for someone, a growing investment in their well-being. In that moment, she realized how significant Joe was to her.

She'd once believed her feelings for Christopher were love, a feeling she expected to last. Now, she understood it wasn't love at all.

Lost in thought, the night deepened. Joe hadn't replied to her messages all day, nor had Paul. They should be at lunch by now. After hesitating, she decided to call Joe. As she dialed, a mechanical voice announced, "The number you have dialed is not in service. Please try again later."