Chapter 171

“Ms. Silver, do I look like Mother Teresa to you?” Skylar asked.

Annie had just threatened Skylar's family and then asked for her help. Had she lost her mind? Annie's logic seemed to have taken a vacation; she was acting like a spoiled brat.

“Please, I’m begging you! Just name your price! If one million dollars isn’t enough, how about two million, or even five million dollars? I can give you five million dollars! As long as you ensure Mr. Martin clears up his misunderstanding, I’ll wire you five million dollars right away,” Annie gritted her teeth, making her desperate offer.

Annie suspected Joe was serious about targeting the Silver family. She couldn't let her reckless actions endanger them.

“Sorry,” Skylar said, walking away.

Forget five million dollars; she wouldn't accept ten. Annie was manipulative and likely to betray her. She wasn't trustworthy and therefore not worth Skylar's time.

Annie clenched her trembling hands, biting her lip as she dialed Rowan's number. “Rowan, I made a mistake,” she said, briefly explaining the situation.

After a pause, Rowan replied, “You’re too reckless, Annie. We talked about Skylar a couple of days ago when I met John. John mentioned that Joe cares a lot about Skylar and advised us not to underestimate her. Who would dare to mess with Joe’s favorite? Annie, you’ve gotten yourself into trouble.”

Annie gripped her phone, overwhelmed by a panic she'd never experienced. “Help me. Help me figure out a way to meet him,” she pleaded.

“No way. If I help you again, Joe won’t see me as a friend anymore. You’re on your own now. Good luck. Instead of coming to me for help, you might as well talk to Skylar,” Rowan refused without hesitation. Neither of them were fools. They understood the consequences of opposing Joe. Rowan was pragmatic and saw things clearly; he wouldn't risk alienating himself from Joe.

Annie ended the call, feeling utterly lost, sitting alone in the restaurant.

Leaving the restaurant, Skylar went straight to the supermarket. She planned to prepare a feast that evening and had already planned the menu that morning. She even asked Gloria what Joe liked to eat most, but Gloria advised her not to fuss too much over his preferences. Gloria pointed out that Joe could easily request his favorite dishes from the housekeepers—Skylar's hands weren't suited for cooking every day.

After a half-hour phone call with Gloria, Skylar had a clear idea of Joe's culinary preferences. With all the ingredients purchased, she headed home to begin cooking. The dishes would be ready by evening.

Exiting the supermarket, she bumped into Marcus, who was with a woman who appeared to be a naive college student.

“Skylar?” Marcus said, surprised.

Skylar smiled. “Mr. Lennon.”

“Why are you shopping alone? Need a hand with all those items?” Marcus’ eyes sparkled as he looked her over.

Ever since their encounter at the club, Marcus hadn't been able to forget Skylar. Running into her alone, he couldn't let this opportunity slip away.

Skylar pushed her cart away, avoiding him. “Thank you, but I’m good on my own.”