Chapter 282

Gloria was surprised by Joe's eagerness to take Skylar home. Her ears flushed with embarrassment as she considered the reason for his haste. She knew what had happened that day: someone had drugged Joe, and Skylar had been present. Both had been affected, and they had ended up together. The maid cleaning Galaxy Villa had mentioned they were sharing a room. Gloria, having been young herself, raised her hand. "Go on," she urged. "I'm tired and need to rest. You two should enjoy your time together." She decided it was best not to be a third wheel.

Skylar was bewildered. Did Joe want to talk to her? Otherwise, why the rush?

With Gloria's urging, they left Pearlhall Residence. In the car, Skylar asked, "Why the rush? Is something wrong?" They hadn't even had dinner; she'd planned to dine with Gloria.

Joe's gaze darkened. He didn't know how to respond. Seeing Skylar at Pearlhall Residence, he'd felt an impulse to take her home—an impulse that now baffled him. He paused before replying, "Nothing's wrong. I just thought we could have stew. There's a restaurant chain owned by the group, with seven or eight stew bases. Let's see if you like anything."

Skylar's eyes lit up. "That's great! I've been craving stew for days!" The prospect of choosing from so many bases thrilled her.

Thirty minutes later, they arrived. Despite being a stew restaurant, the décor was extravagant, befitting the Martin Group. The aroma was enticing as they entered. They went to a private room on the eighth floor, where Skylar excitedly chose two stew bases (they could choose up to four). The variety of ingredients far surpassed other similar restaurants. Skylar's eyes sparkled—she was a true stew lover! "I've ordered mine," she said, brimming with anticipation. "See if there's anything you'd like."

Joe hummed in acknowledgment and studied the menu.

"I'm going to the restroom," Skylar said, rising.

Joe glanced at her, then lowered his head to the menu. He ordered a mildly spicy stew and a vegetable stew.

He waited idly for Skylar and their food. A few minutes later, she returned.

At that moment, Charles and a friend emerged from another room, heading for the restroom. Charles stopped abruptly.

"What's wrong, Charles?" his friend asked.

Charles blinked. "I must have been mistaken. It couldn't have been Skye." He thought the woman entering a private room resembled Skylar from behind. He'd almost called out to her, but realized Skylar was unlikely to dine in such an expensive place—one meal here cost more than ten at other restaurants.

"Who's Skye?" his friend asked.

Charles chuckled. "My sister. I thought that woman was her." He texted Skylar.