Chapter 1244

Caleb heard the ringtone and looked at Skylar. He was about to ask why she wasn't answering when he saw the incoming video call. He wondered what was wrong with Ned.

Skylar answered, and Ned's face filled the screen. The hotel background suggested his location.

"Mr. Sowle, what can I do for you?" Skylar asked directly.

Seeing Skylar in a car, Ned inquired, "Are you driving?"

"No, my friend is driving," Skylar replied, glancing at Caleb.

Caleb winked, full of questions. When had these two exchanged numbers? Just days ago, at the charity gala, Ned had seemed distant and unfamiliar; now, his demeanor was markedly attentive. Caleb sensed danger; Ned clearly harbored intentions toward Skylar.

Ned then said, "The headache-relief massage technique you sent me was very effective. Thank you."

Skylar smiled. "You're welcome. I'm glad it helped."

So, the call was simply a thank you. A small favor, from Skylar's perspective.

"If you have time, let's have lunch tomorrow?" Ned stated directly.

Skylar was surprised. "There's no need, Mr. Sowle. I have a flight tomorrow."

Ned was momentarily taken aback before nodding. "Alright then."

"Okay then, goodbye, Mr. Sowle." As Skylar looked at Ned's face—resembling Joe's—memories flooded her, making her eager to return to Murida.

Ned nodded goodbye. After Skylar ended the call, he frowned, a dull ache in his head. Until last night, the woman in his dreams had been blurry; last night, she'd become clear—Skylar, down to every detail.

He guessed this indicated developing feelings for her. She was the first woman he'd ever desired to be close to.

A knock interrupted his thoughts.

"Ned."

Putting aside his thoughts, Ned opened the door to find Rosa smiling. "A college classmate is in town for business, and we're meeting. I'm heading out now."

Ned had a busy day; the new branch office kept him occupied. For days, Rosa had stayed close, partly to assert her position and partly to prevent Ned and Skylar from meeting alone; Skylar made her deeply uneasy. In truth, Rosa wasn't meeting a classmate; she was meeting a private investigator. Some things were better discussed in person.

Ned nodded. "Go ahead. Call if you need anything."

"Take care of yourself. If your head hurts, take a break," Rosa reminded him, concerned about his well-being.

Ned simply nodded.