Chapter 1223

Skylar mused, "One should harbor no malice, but vigilance is always necessary."

Natalie's eyes widened. "How could I have missed that? I genuinely believed she was Mr. Powell's fiancée. Now that you mention it, it makes perfect sense. Mr. Powell only recently returned to Jipsburg City. Even after three years away from the entertainment industry, he remains a top-tier celebrity. No one rivals his popularity, so there are undoubtedly those who envy him and seek to damage his reputation."

Relief washed over her. "That was close. Thank you, Skylar."

Skylar nodded. "It's quite likely."

"I'm blocking this number now," Natalie declared, swiftly tapping her phone.

Just then, a voice called out, "Skylar?"

Skylar looked up.

"It's really you! Someone said they saw you at a charity gala a couple of days ago—they claimed you mistook Ned for Joe. I thought they were joking, but I see it's true," Claudio said, stepping closer, his eyes alight with surprise.

For three years, he'd been unable to forget Skylar. He'd initially assumed Joe was dead, leaving Skylar vulnerable, believing winning her affection would be easy. But she'd unexpectedly gone to Murida with Gloria, and now she was back.

Skylar's expression turned icy at the sight of Claudio. Natalie noticed the shift in Skylar's demeanor and Claudio's appraising gaze, instantly recognizing him as untrustworthy.

"Aren't you going to greet an old friend? Is that really necessary?" Claudio's eyes narrowed, his determination palpable. He was set on possessing Skylar. She looked even more beautiful than before. He'd pursued many women similar to Skylar over the years, yet always felt something was lacking. Seeing her again, he finally understood: it was her spirit—her fierceness.

Skylar responded coolly, "We're not acquainted. Greetings are unnecessary."

"Not acquainted? We will be. Are you and your friend waiting for a table? This is my friend's restaurant; I can have you seated in a private room," Claudio offered, flashing a confident smile, the practiced charm he used on naive college girls.

Natalie tugged at her lips. "Skye, I suddenly don't want barbecue. Let's have fondue instead."

"Let's go," Skylar said, rising.

As they attempted to leave, Claudio blocked their path. "Why the sudden departure? Skylar, three years ago I asked you to be with me. I'm asking again. Will you?"

"Get lost," Skylar snapped, her patience exhausted. Even her usually impeccable manners crumbled in the face of such blatant disregard.

Then, a familiar voice cut through the tension. "Ms. Sullivan, do you need my assistance?"

Skylar turned. It was Ned.