Chapter 268

Three beautiful women stood alluringly before Joe. Any man would likely find them irresistible, but Joe seemed dissatisfied. Skylar realized he must have exceptionally high standards. She wondered what kind of woman could capture his attention.

Joe's expression hardened as he looked at Skylar. "I have a better choice," he said. "Do you think I'd be interested in the people you sent?"

The others then noticed Skylar's presence. She regarded them with a calm, curious gaze. The three sisters, accustomed to comparing themselves to others, immediately scowled upon seeing Skylar. Their goal was to seduce Joe. Why was another woman here?

Their father had assured them everything was perfectly arranged, even advising them to dress beautifully. They had prepared a cello and flute outside, ready to showcase their talents, waiting for Joe to choose one of them. But this woman was far more beautiful.

Skylar noticed their stares and offered a small smile. The sisters couldn't return it; they sensed Joe's disinterest. They had been groomed for elegance and excellence from a young age, yet Joe hadn't even glanced at them. Now they understood: it was because of this woman.

The middle-aged man was clearly shocked. He hadn't expected another guest. He had meticulously planned everything.

"This" he stammered. He'd never known Joe to date anyone. Paul usually accompanied Joe. Over the years, many women had attempted to seduce Joe, but none had succeeded. Why was there suddenly another woman—and one so obviously more beautiful than his three daughters?

"Mr. Martin," one sharp-minded sister with long, flowing hair proposed, "I'm particularly skilled at the flute. I've won numerous competitions. How about I play a piece for you and this lady?"

The middle-aged man favored this daughter; she was clever and adept at pleasing men. She was also quick to diffuse tense situations.

Skylar blinked. Was this really happening?

Joe noticed Skylar's intrigued expression and felt a surge of inexplicable anger. "Go ahead," he said sharply.

The middle-aged man breathed a sigh of relief. One of his daughters had saved the situation; otherwise, he would have been humiliated. He had staked everything on this plan. He had to get one of his daughters into Joe's bed. Everything depended on Joe becoming his son-in-law.

Skylar, who had initially intended to use the restroom, decided to watch the flute performance instead.

The woman played beautifully. Skylar enjoyed the music and the food. However, midway through the piece, while eating, she felt a strange dizziness, not drowsiness, but a peculiar sensation accompanied by lightheadedness. She found herself inexplicably attracted to Joe, who seemed strikingly handsome and charming. His gaze, deep and intense, met hers; something seemed to burn in their eyes.