Chapter 1340

Gloria was taken aback. "What's more important?"

"Taking you to the hospital for a check-up, of course," Skylar replied. She knew Gloria disliked hospital visits, but felt more at ease with a scheduled check-up. If anything was amiss, they could address it immediately.

When Gloria heard it was for a check-up, she sighed. "The doctor just came to the house yesterday and said I was fine. Do we really need to go?" She looked like a child reluctant to go. Skylar chuckled, gently persuading her, "The hospital can perform a more thorough examination."

"Mrs. Martin is right. We should go," Veronica agreed.

"Alright, alright. I can't argue with both of you. Let's go then." Gloria knew more tests wouldn't significantly change things; she understood her condition best. However, knowing Joe was alive gave her the will to persevere. She wanted to remain as long as possible, to be there for Skylar.

After breakfast, the three of them went to the hospital. En route, Gloria recalled the recent appearance of cursed items back home and asked, "Has Viola's brother resurfaced recently?"

"We've found some cursed items, so it's likely he has. Mr. Gardner Senior has people searching for him. He'll let me know if there's news," Skylar replied. "But given recent events, many in Jipsburg are on high alert."

With everything happening, Skylar hadn't had time to focus on Jipsburg. Gloria nodded. "You always carry so much. If anything's troubling you, don't bottle it up—talk to me, understand?"

"I've never kept secrets from you, Grandma."

"Haha, look at you. By the way, your mother and brothers will be visiting soon, right? Let them stay with us. With just a few of us, it would be nice to have some company," Gloria suggested.

Skylar had been worried about Gloria's need for peace and quiet; she wondered if more people would be too much. But hearing Gloria's invitation, she nodded. "They haven't booked tickets yet, but they should be coming soon."

They arrived at the hospital mid-conversation. They had appointments every two weeks. Unlike crowded hospitals back home, this one was quiet.

After seeing the doctor, Skylar accompanied Gloria for several routine tests. Some procedures required Skylar to wait outside. While waiting, she heard someone call.

"It's really you," Rosa said, her tone icy. She never expected to encounter Skylar here, amidst her pre-surgery preparations. This felt deliberate. Was Skylar here because she knew about the surgery, hoping to run into Joe? How shameless!

Skylar was equally surprised.

"What are you doing here? Didn't you say enough yesterday? Or are you here to continue?" Veronica interjected, ever sharp-tongued.