Chapter 1221

At that moment, someone called Skylar's name. "Skylar," a deep, magnetic voice resonated across the room, momentarily disorienting her. The voice was so familiar her hand trembled slightly as she looked up. Seeing the man in the tailored suit, she rose, tears welling in her eyes. Her voice trembled uncontrollably as she whispered, "Joe… Is that really you?"

The man's gaze locked on Skylar; he almost nodded, as if acknowledging his return. Hearing Skylar, Janine turned, her eyes widening in stunned silence. "Skye…"

Skylar, taking a closer look, felt the excitement fade. It wasn't Joe; it was Ned. He possessed Joe's commanding presence and style, but subtle differences were apparent; his eyes weren't the same.

"Sorry, Mr. Sowle, I mistook you for someone else," Skylar apologized.

Janine's shock was palpable. The resemblance was uncanny; Ned and Joe were virtually identical, confirming the online rumors. Yet, if it were truly Joe, he wouldn't observe Skylar's distress with such indifference.

Ned nodded. "It's fine. What brings you to the hospital?"

"I'm accompanying my mother for a check-up," Skylar replied calmly.

Ned nodded slightly toward Janine. "Mrs. Sullivan."

Janine smiled politely. "Hello."

"Mr. Sowle, are you here for your headache?" Skylar asked, noticing his persistent frown. Headaches, she knew, were as tormenting as toothaches. She recalled his suffering yesterday in his car; Rosa had mentioned it was a long-standing problem. The similarities between him and Joe were striking.

Ned nodded. "The acupuncture points you mentioned yesterday—after pressing them, the pain eased. Do you know much about traditional medicine?"

"Not really. I've read a few books, know how to massage certain points, and a few chamomile tea recipes that might help. If you'd like, I can write one down for you." She subconsciously didn't want to see him suffer, given his resemblance to Joe and shared ailments. Offering help felt minimal. If Joe were alive, she hoped others would treat him with the same sincerity she offered Ned.

Ned stared at her. "Give me your contact information."

Skylar hesitated, smiling politely. "I don't think we'll meet again, Mr. Sowle. I can draw you a diagram of the points and techniques now." She knew Rosa disapproved of her closeness to Ned; avoiding misunderstandings was crucial.

Ned frowned, glancing at his watch. "I have something to attend to. Let's exchange information on WhatsApp now." He produced his phone, leaving no room for refusal. Skylar saw his number displayed, awaiting hers. Reluctantly, she exchanged contact information. As she looked up, she noticed a softening in Ned's previously cold expression.