Chapter 1256

In her panic, Rosa quickly deleted all chat logs and video call records, then replaced his phone. Moments later, she breathed deeply, calming herself. She didn't need to feel guilty; her relationship with Ned was unparalleled. Even if he discovered her actions, he wouldn't mind. Skylar was merely a fleeting acquaintance. Perhaps he'd had impulsive thoughts, but there were no genuine feelings involved. Skylar blocking him was probably for the best—perhaps her boyfriend had done it. A cold laugh escaped her.

An hour later, Ned returned to the hotel. Entering the room, he reached for his phone, realizing he'd forgotten it earlier. He unlocked it, checking for a reply from Skylar. There was none. He frowned, tossing the phone aside, then tugged at his tie and went to the bathroom.

Half an hour later, a WhatsApp notification appeared. It was Rosa: "Are you back?"

Ned's eyes flickered. "Yeah, not asleep yet?"

Rosa replied, "It's still thundering outside. You know I'm always scared of thunderstorms, so I can't sleep. Can you come and stay with me?"

Ned remained impassive. "I still have some work to handle. Why don't you watch some TV? The thunderstorm will pass soon."

Rosa replied with a simple "Okay" and a disappointed emoji.

As Ned was about to close WhatsApp, he saw Skylar's profile picture. He hesitated before sending a message: "Do you need my help with anything?" The message failed to send; he'd been blocked.

Chapter 1255

Ned's face darkened. He hadn't expected Skylar to block him. Their recent interactions had seemed amicable, but he wondered if she'd blocked him to avoid further contact. He set the phone down. If that was her wish, he wouldn't disturb her.

Rosa lay in bed, absently scrolling through her phone. She couldn't sleep, not because of the thunder, but because she worried Ned might discover something. She waited until late, but Ned never came. Relief flooded her. It seemed Ned didn't care much for Skylar after all. She'd overestimated Skylar and underestimated her own importance to him. After knowing him so long, she understood him better than anyone. Ned was always cold and aloof; no one truly reached his heart. Not even her.