Chapter 1267

It seemed almost unbelievable, impossible even, that Joe was dead. But throughout the past few centuries, history has been filled with the tragic deaths of young heroes.

Skylar pressed her lips together, silent a moment. She nodded slightly under Steven’s concerned gaze. “I know what I have to do next, Steven. Don’t worry.” She’d already braced for the worst, for the sake of her family and herself.

Seeing her nod, Steven felt slightly reassured. Skylar quickly changed the subject. “Steven, Mona really loves you.” Anyone could see Mona’s devotion; her feelings were genuine and pure.

Steven’s lips curved into a smile, his demeanor softening with happiness. He nodded. “I love her just as much.” He knew how lucky he was and intended to cherish her for the rest of his life.

After a few minutes, Janine finished preparing the baked salmon. Though she’d planned on six dishes, the table held eight, plus a bowl of soup—a delicious feast. Janine was truly capable. During dinner, they discussed wedding details. It was Janine’s first time as a mother-in-law, and she seemed a bit nervous. It was also Skylar’s first time as a sister-in-law, and in the cheerful atmosphere, she offered a few suggestions. Dinner lasted until 11:00 p.m. Steven drove Mona home; Skylar stayed.

As they relaxed, Janine sighed. “Time flies so fast. In the blink of an eye, you’re all grown up. Harvey’s about to graduate, and Steven’s getting married. Soon enough, I’ll be a grandma, and you’ll be an aunt. Life just keeps getting better, don’t you think, Skye?”

“Yes, I can’t wait to be an aunt. Mom, I know you’ve been worried about me. Being away from Jipsburg these past three years caused you constant worry. That was my failing as a daughter. But Grandma has been so kind, and her health is failing. She doesn’t have much time left, maybe a year or two at most. I want to be there for her. After that, I’ll come back and spend more time with you.”

Skylar leaned in, wrapping her arms around Janine and resting her head on her shoulder. Her eyes stung slightly, and Janine’s eyes grew red as well. Janine gently patted Skylar’s back. “Alright, alright, go ahead and take care of Gloria. She only has you now. As for me, I still have your brothers and now a daughter-in-law. Honestly, don’t worry. My life is quite full these days. I have my career, and you all have your own paths to follow. Thinking back, 10 or 20 years ago, I couldn’t have dreamed of this. It’s like a dream come true.”

Skylar hugged Janine tighter. “Things will only get better from here, Mom.”

The next morning, Skylar arrived at the airport early, worried about traffic. Howard and Jacky were also there. Jeremy couldn’t make it, but with three of them picking up Paul, there was no need to worry. They hadn’t told Paul’s family about finding him yet—it was Paul’s request. Given his condition, he didn’t want to cause them concern.

“I looked into Mr. Ziegler’s condition. The facial injuries aren’t the main issue; a little cosmetic surgery will fix those. But the trauma… that’s not something surgery can easily fix,” Howard said with a frown.

Chapter 1268