Chapter 1283

Even a series of seemingly insignificant behaviors could be revealing. Stephen believed Simona was wealthy and that her spending habits were simply a reflection of that. He felt entirely comfortable enjoying the benefits of her generosity.

He needed Stephen to understand that while he could trifle with other kind-hearted and innocent girls without repercussions, playing with his sister, Simona, would have consequences.

Time flew by, and soon it was 7:00 a.m. With little traffic, the drive from the city center to the airport took about fifty minutes. After checking out of their hotel, Ned and Rosa immediately headed for their car.

Skylar happened to be on the road at the same time. As she approached the hotel, Jeremy called.

“Skylar, Ned and Rosa are gone. They must have left for the airport. Their departure was sudden. Just now, my team member coordinating with Ned informed me that he’s leaving Jipsburg today and won’t be back for several days. Are you heading to the hotel?”

Skylar slammed on her brakes.

“How could they leave so suddenly? Weren’t they planning to establish a branch in Jipsburg? They have numerous projects and collaborations. Why would they leave at such a crucial juncture?”

Jeremy replied, “I’m not entirely sure. It seems he had an urgent matter to attend to. You should go to the airport as quickly as possible. I doubt you’ll get there in time. Have you tried calling him?”

Skylar’s throat tightened. “I’ve called repeatedly, but he hasn’t answered. We had a few misunderstandings beforehand.”

“Let me try calling him,” Jeremy said after a pause.

Skylar agreed. “Okay, I’m heading to the airport now.”

“Is Ned really Mr. Martin?” Helena asked Jeremy, wiping her still-damp hair, as he searched for phone numbers.

Jeremy glanced back. “Yes, there’s a ninety percent chance he is Joe.”

“It’s like something out of a movie! I can’t believe someone can actually come back to life. The happiest person has to be Skylar. She’s truly experienced a miraculous turnaround,” Helena sighed.

Chapter 1283

Sometimes, Helena genuinely envied Skylar. Skylar not only had Joe’s affection, but her friends had supported her through difficult times. Now, she knew Joe was alive.

And as for Helena…

She silently watched Jeremy dial a number. They had been close the previous night, yet a palpable barrier seemed to exist between them during the day. This awkwardness underscored the limited time she could spend with him.

Even though he’d ended things with Natalie, the Hughes family continued to arrange suitable matches for him. She remained a hidden secret. A wave of sadness washed over her.

Jeremy made several calls, but no one answered. He frowned and called Skylar to explain the situation.

“Is Ned leaving in such a hurry because his fiancée fears the truth about him being Joe Martin will be revealed?” Helena speculated, attempting to shake off her disappointment.

Jeremy’s eyes lit up. “That’s entirely possible.”

The urgency of their departure strongly suggested Rosa was afraid.

“I think his fiancée must have sensed something long ago but kept it hidden, suggesting she has her own reasons. If she doesn't reveal Ned's true identity, and since he appears to have amnesia, the outcome for Skylar is unlikely to be positive,” Helena said.

“Ned won’t easily believe her. This whole situation is just too unbelievable,” Helena added.

Jeremy nodded thoughtfully. Helena felt uneasy under his gaze. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” Jeremy replied, averting his gaze.

“Oh, I have an event this afternoon, and I should go to rehearsal now,” Helena said.