Chapter 1292

Ned, an orphan and lifelong loner, remained aloof even during university, his only companion Rosa, his girlfriend. Later, he faced ostracism at work, a stark contrast to his current self. Now, a naturally commanding leader, though reserved in manner, he inspired unwavering loyalty and admiration from his team.

Reflecting on this, Rosa felt increasingly anxious. Leaving Jipsburg, she'd hoped to avoid trouble, but her actions seemed to have backfired. Her insistence had made Joe suspicious, fueling her unease. She waited nervously for his response, holding her breath.

Joe, observing Rosa's panicked avoidance of his gaze, felt his doubts intensify. "Stop overthinking," he said, his voice deep. "Go home and rest. Prepare for your surgery in a couple of days."

Rosa, hurt and disheartened by his indirect answer, felt a deep pang of sadness. "Ned, you have to trust me," she pleaded. "The person I love most in this world is you."

"Yes," Joe replied, his usual brevity leaving Rosa feeling dismissed. A heavy weight settled on her chest. She opened her mouth to speak, but the words caught in her throat, feeling inadequate and insufficient. At least, Skylar's absence in Murida offered some solace; they wouldn't have to face her again.

Meanwhile, Skylar, having adjusted to the time difference, awoke from a nap at 3:00 PM. Downstairs, she found Gloria enjoying fruit and television. Seeing Skylar, Gloria exclaimed excitedly, "Skye, come try these! Freshly picked strawberries!"

Skylar's eyes lit up. "I was just craving strawberries!"

Since arriving in Murida, she'd been sleeping and acclimating to the time zone. Today, she felt refreshed.

"We're both strawberry lovers," Gloria smiled warmly. "It's good we grow them; enough for both of us."

Veronica Elledge, Gloria's maid, remarked, "Ever since you came back, Mrs. Martin Senior has been in such good spirits."

Though Gloria claimed to love strawberries, she usually ate only one or two. Her appetite noticeably improved only when Skylar was present.

Gloria quickly shot Veronica a look. "I'm in a good mood even when Skye isn't here. Of course, I'm happier now that she's back." Despite her reluctance to see Skylar leave, Gloria knew her granddaughter couldn't stay forever. After all, Joe was never returning.