Chapter 21

What was she wearing? The two thin straps of her dress seemed fragile. As Skylar approached Joe, she noticed his scowl. Was he embarrassed by her dress? She believed the stylist had done a good job with her dress and makeup, and she liked her look.

"Do I look bad?" Skylar asked.

Joe's dark eyes, slightly narrowed in displeasure, answered her. "There are many high-society people at this auction. You'll attract attention in that dress."

"If it gets me attention, I have your stylist to thank. The dress and makeup are top-notch," Skylar said, detecting sarcasm in Joe's tone.

Paul stared, open-mouthed, at their exchange. Skylar appeared unconcerned by Joe's feelings. If she cared, she would have quickly explained herself, if he'd misconstrued her intentions.

The auction house staff had arranged seating. Maisy and Jeffrey sat in a back corner. The auction was well-attended; apparently, the items were valuable. Even if they couldn't buy anything, it was a broadening experience. Jeffrey was only attending thanks to an introduction. Maisy had begged to join him after learning of his attendance.

The Williamses, though owners of a company and properties in Jipsburg, were not part of the high society gathered there. Jeffrey hoped to network; Maisy shared his ambition, and wondered if she'd see Joe again.

All the men wore suits. Seated at the back, Maisy had a limited view.

"Dad," Maisy whispered, "you said the Martin Group contract helped our company. If Mr. Martin is here, could we speak to him?"

Jeffrey felt hopeful. "I'll try if there's an opportunity."

He then recalled something. "Mr. Martin is unmarried. You're an outstanding young lady, Maisy. If you could get to know him… you understand, right?"

Maisy blushed, understanding his intentions. "Yes, Dad."

"You're smart. No wonder you're my daughter," Jeffrey praised, before freezing.

Maisy, seeing his stunned expression, asked, "What is it, Dad?"

Jeffrey stared at a couple in the front row. The man was Joe; the woman's back looked familiar—like Skylar, who'd been the source of his bad mood all day.

"Joe brought a female companion. She looks like Skylar."

"A companion?" Maisy looked. She only saw Joe's back, but it was enough to captivate her. He was handsome in his suit. She couldn't believe he had a companion. The woman wore a stunning dress Maisy could only dream of, showing off a beautiful back and delicate skin.

She looked like… Skylar.

Maisy was jealous.

"Dad, she just resembles Skylar. But she couldn't possibly know Mr. Martin." Maisy thought the woman's dress was provocative and possibly even counterfeit.

Jeffrey looked again. "You're right. I was mistaken. She doesn't look like Skylar at all."

Unbeknownst to them, Skylar sat down with Joe, and the auction began moments later.

"What does Grandma want?" Skylar asked Joe, feeling tired from the auction. Her head pounded; she'd been overworked lately, and the fatigue was a symptom of her regular blood donations.

Joe looked down at Skylar; his height advantage made her features easily visible. This dress wasn't suitable.

"A diamond ring," he replied coldly.

He noticed a man appraising Skylar from head to toe. Joe's expression hardened. The man, seeing Joe, stopped, seemingly taken aback. It was rare to find a woman so instantly appealing, and he was surprised she was with Joe, who he'd never seen with other women. Had she simply accompanied him, he wouldn't have received that warning glare. The next item was an antique painting.

After describing the painting, the auctioneer began the bidding. Skylar was surprised to see it; Daniel had acted quickly. She wondered how much it would fetch—she'd sold it for $500,000.

Joe noted Skylar's intense interest. He remembered her bringing painting supplies when she moved into Galaxy Villa. Was she interested in antique paintings?