Chapter 153

“Ms. Silver, how do you know Skylar? Do you know who her benefactor is?”

Maisy’s throat felt dry. She hadn’t asked the most pressing question: her family desperately wanted to know Skylar's benefactor, but their investigation had yielded nothing.

Annie smiled faintly. “I’ve met Ms. Sullivan only once. I don’t know much about her.” Despite her dislike for Skylar, Annie knew Joe hadn't publicly acknowledged their relationship. Even if they had been intimate, it was only a fling—information Annie wouldn't disclose. She couldn't explain herself if Joe found out.

“I have an appointment, Ms. Williams,” Annie said, grabbing her bag and rising. “I must go.”

Maisy was astonished. “Where did you meet her, Ms. Silver? Did she approach you?” Maisy had answered every question except about Skylar's identity, even revealing Skylar had a boyfriend. Why wouldn't Annie reciprocate? Annie's curiosity about Skylar suggested she knew more than she was letting on.

Annie's expression cooled. Distantly, she said, “Sorry, that’s in the past. I can’t recall where we met. It was nice chatting with you. Perhaps we’ll meet again.”

“Wait. Let’s exchange WhatsApp contacts,” Maisy offered, opening the app on her phone.

But Annie remained firm. “Let’s save that for next time. Goodbye.”

Even Maisy could see Annie had no intention of meeting again. Humiliated, she mused, “How does Annie know Skylar?” Annie had proactively added Skylar on WhatsApp, but Skylar hadn't reciprocated. Now, Annie refused Maisy's request. The preferential treatment Skylar received was infuriating. Maisy clenched her teeth.

Ultimately, it was inconsequential. To the Williams family, Maisy was queen; Skylar held no position.

Caleb lay in his hospital bed, bored, playing on his phone. Leg surgery had confined him; he wouldn't walk for three months, let alone ride his motorcycle. He glanced at the clock; an hour until Skylar finished work. He was eager to see her.

A phone call interrupted his game.

“Uncle John.”

“Caleb, I heard from Grandpa that you like Skylar. She works with him, right?”

Caleb rolled his eyes. “Why does Grandpa broadcast everything? Uncle John, if you’re so keen on managing kids, start your own family; don't meddle. Grandpa approves. Skylar is lovely.”

“You can’t have her. Forget her. Find someone else,” John said.

“Why not? Did Grandpa tell you she’s older? So what? I look older anyway. Leave me alone, Uncle John. It’s free love these days. I’m not interested in a transactional marriage,” Caleb retorted, ignoring his uncle's advice.