Chapter 1205

Aiken squinted at the car ahead, turning to his companion. "Keep investigating those two."

"Mr. Parkinson, do you think..."

"Yeah, something feels off. Continue the investigation," Aiken said, his voice deep.

After a night of revelry, Skylar awoke at Minerva's house. They had spent the previous evening drinking together. Though her alcohol tolerance remained low, it had improved considerably since three years prior. They'd clearly drunk late; she'd slept in the guest room.

Climbing from bed, she found Minerva preparing breakfast. Aproned, Minerva resembled a devoted wife as she surveyed the hungover Skylar.

"I made you some bolognese pasta. I didn't add much seasoning because we drank so much last night. Something comforting will settle your stomach."

"Minerva, whoever marries you is going to be so lucky," Skylar said, approaching the table and admiring the beautifully presented pasta. She gave Minerva a thumbs-up; it was a genuine compliment. Knowing how to cook herself, she appreciated the skill involved in making bolognese. The rich sauce, made from tomatoes and ground meat, was exquisitely presented. Even the grated cheese was arranged in a heart shape, enhancing the dish's appeal.

Minerva beamed. "I had to cook for myself while living abroad these past few years. I couldn't get used to the food there. At first, my cooking was terrible, but I started following recipes. Thankfully, I'm not a kitchen disaster anymore. Over time, I developed an interest, and my dishes improved."

"So, you told me last night that your boyfriend initially liked coming over for your meals, and that's how he gradually became attached to you, right?" Skylar asked, laughing.

"Well… yes. We actually knew each other a long time ago, but I didn't think much of him when we were in Jipsburg. He was the one who reminded me we were classmates and had met before," Minerva replied.

Back in college, her strict upbringing and a crush on Rowan had left little room for anyone else. Her feelings for Rowan stemmed partly from her family's arranged marriage plans; he was the intended spouse. Too young to fully understand her emotions then, she'd been captivated by the charming and handsome Rowan, believing him to be her life partner.

Skylar smiled and nodded. "Your relationship sounds so romantic."

After washing and brushing her teeth, she tasted Minerva's homemade bolognese. Despite its simplicity, it was richly flavored; she finished an entire bowl.

Minerva asked, "Do you have any plans today? If not, could you come with me to pick out a dress? I need one for my engagement in a few days."

Skylar shook her head. "I don't have anything planned, except I need to go to a company dinner tonight. My mom's hosting a team-building event, and as the behind-the-scenes boss, I have to attend."

"Great!" Minerva exclaimed.

As Minerva went to her room to change, Skylar unlocked her phone. A news alert popped up: Ned was trending due to his striking resemblance to Joe. Some mischievous users had even tagged Lizzie and Vera, urging them to confirm the similarity. Just then, her phone rang.