Chapter 1212

Janine and her team had prepared the various skewers that morning. The meat was exceptionally fresh. The hot spring resort staff had set up the grill and charcoal fire; the men took charge of grilling, while the women gathered nearby, enjoying the cooked skewers and chatting.

Muriel and Skylar sat together. They had occasionally chatted on WhatsApp over the past few years. Unlike a few years prior, Muriel now exuded confidence, her face frequently lit with a smile.

“I know you contacted me three years ago because Lizzie introduced me as a potential candidate,” Muriel said calmly.

Skylar was surprised. She hadn’t realized Muriel knew. “When did you figure it out?”

Muriel smiled, recalling, “One day, while selling crafts at the night market, I saw Lizzie; you were with her. You left together. I desperately needed that opportunity then.”

She continued, “Perhaps I’ve matured. I no longer possess the reckless arrogance of my college days. I realized that if I didn’t seize that opportunity, my life might never change. So, I pretended not to know. Thank you for that. Please thank Lizzie for me, too.”

“Of course. You’re truly talented. Your designs have gained significant recognition, and my company’s profits have increased yearly. It’s a win-win,” Skylar replied.

Muriel nodded. “Not everyone gets a second chance. I couldn't have imagined being here a few years ago. Can you give Lizzie a message from me?”

“Sure, what is it?”

Muriel’s eyes held a hint of nostalgia as she said, “I’ve never hated her.”

An hour later, Skylar rested in one of the villa’s guest rooms. After changing into her swimsuit, she took her time before heading out. The villa's décor evoked memories of her previous visit with Joe; the similar design easily triggered old memories. After a moment of reflection, she called Lizzie.

“Didn’t you say your company had a team-building event today? Why are you calling?” Lizzie asked, smiling.

Skylar, pleased with her bright pink swimsuit—Janine had impeccable taste; the color flattered her skin—though still slightly uncomfortable in something so revealing, looked at herself in the mirror. Hearing Lizzie’s cheerful tone, she replied, “Muriel asked me to pass on a message.”

Lizzie fell silent. After a few seconds, she asked, “What does she want me to know?”

Over the years, knowing Muriel’s progress and seeing her achieve her dreams had eased Lizzie’s guilt, but she still lacked the courage to face Muriel directly.

“She said she doesn’t hate you,” Skylar said softly. She had seen lingering feelings for Lizzie in Muriel’s expression.

Lizzie remained silent, but didn’t hang up. Skylar guessed she was composing herself.

A few minutes later, Lizzie’s voice trembled. “Did she really say that?”

“Yes. In fact, she knew you recommended her,” Skylar replied, sensing the enduring connection between them. Despite everything, their bond remained.