Chapter 1339

The food wasn't restaurant-quality, nor did it match the maid's cooking, but it was still quite good. Few women today possessed Rosa's culinary skill and versatility. Besides, Skylar likely couldn't cook at all, making any comparison moot.

After Joe finished, Rosa noticed the barely-touched dishes she was clearing. He seemed to have only sampled them. She glanced at him, already settled on the couch. Had his praise been mere courtesy? Was he still unsatisfied? She’d poured her heart into the meal—what more could he want?

“Ned,” she called out impulsively.

Joe looked up. “Is something wrong?”

“No, nothing. I just missed you,” Rosa replied, concealing her questions about his day. She'd ask his assistant later.

Half an hour later, Rosa called Calvin from her car. “Did Mr. Sowle go on a date with a woman today? Who was it?”

Calvin was startled by the direct question. “Mr. Sowle wasn't on a date. He returned from a business trip and has been traveling.”

“Really?” Rosa was skeptical. If he hadn't been with a woman, where had that scent come from?

“Yes, his schedule has been packed these past few days,” Calvin insisted.

Rosa's suspicions eased slightly. Perhaps she was overthinking. He might have picked up the scent incidentally during a meal or meeting.

Leaning back, she pressed her fingers to her temples. Her recent tension over Skylar was making her overly cautious, even hysterical. This behavior would only push Joe away.

She decided to visit Gloria again after her discharge. Today hadn't gone as planned; she hadn't said everything she wanted, ideally with Skylar present. She was weary of constant worry.

The next day, Gloria’s improved appearance relieved Skylar.

“I told you I was fine! You two worry too much. I’m perfectly healthy,” Gloria said cheerfully to Skylar and Veronica.

Skylar nodded. “As long as you’re well, that’s all that matters. If Rosa comes by again, just turn her away. There’s no need to see her.”

“I agree,” Veronica affirmed. She felt Rosa had the audacity to cause trouble.

Gloria chuckled. “Alright, alright. If she dares to come back, we’ll send her away.”

“Skye, anything important today?”

“I accepted Mr. Knight’s commission, so I’ll be restoring his paintings at home over the next two months when I have time. But something even more important is happening today,” Skylar replied.