Chapter 1197
Even if Caleb had other plans, he would have canceled them. This was his first opportunity to eat a meal personally cooked by Skylar, and he couldn't miss it. He was ecstatic.
“Alright, I’ll get started then. If you’re bored, you can watch TV or something,” Skylar said, heading upstairs to change out of her gown.
Lunch consisted of four dishes and a soup—simple, home-cooked fare ready in under an hour. Caleb enjoyed it so much he finished everything.
“If only I could eat your cooking every day!” he sighed, leaning back on the couch, feeling quite full. He was determined to win Skylar over, regardless of any obstacles.
Skylar, still treating him somewhat like a child, smiled and said, “When I’m here and at home, I’ll cook for myself. You can come over if you want.”
Caleb nodded eagerly, taking her words seriously, despite their likely polite nature. He hadn't had this chance before, but now that he did, he intended to seize it fully. He wanted everyone to know Skylar was his crush.
Aiken held several photos depicting a man and woman entering and exiting a high-end mall; their faces were clearly visible. The man looked familiar, but the woman was entirely new to him. The man's resemblance to Joe was striking; even Gloria would have found it difficult to distinguish them. No wonder Skylar had mistaken him for Joe.
However, the man wasn't Joe. His name was Ned Sowle, a Muridian engaged to the woman in the photos. They had recently arrived in Jipsburg to start a company and explore a collaboration, planning to marry soon.
Aiken frowned, studying the photos intently. The resemblance to Joe was uncanny. He tapped the photos lightly, hesitating. How should he tell Skylar about Ned's identity? Would it hurt her again? He could disregard others' feelings, but Skylar's well-being mattered.
Chapter 1197
“Mr. Parkinson, are you attending the charity gala tonight?” a voice inquired after three knocks on the door.
Aiken, his eyes still fixed on the photos, asked in a deep voice, “Are we sure Hawking Technologies' Mr. Sowle will be attending?”
“Yes, Mr. Parkinson. It’s confirmed.”
“Alright, make the preparations then.”
At 4:00 p.m., Skylar and Caleb arrived promptly at the charity gala. The turnout was larger than Skylar expected. While most attendees were strangers, many recognized Caleb. She paid little attention to the curious glances directed her way until someone called out, “Skylar? Skylar! It’s really you!” She turned to see Minerva approaching quickly.
After over three years, Minerva looked even more radiant and confident. Her movements exuded grace and poise.
“Minerva?”
“I just got back yesterday. I heard you’d returned, but I’ve been busy and couldn’t reach out. I didn’t expect to see you here!” Minerva was delighted.
For Minerva, the event was rather dull; she hadn’t attended such gatherings in years and felt slightly out of place. However, seeing Skylar made the evening worthwhile.