Chapter 295

There were messages from others, but none from Skylar. She was sweet in bed, but cold and heartless afterward.

Joe pursed his lips, stood up, and walked to the window. He overlooked the bustling streets and traffic of Jipsburg City. Suddenly, an inexplicable irritation washed over him, and he lit a cigarette.

Amidst the smoke, a message popped up on his phone. Holding the cigarette, he opened WhatsApp. It was from Skylar:

“Grandma said dinner will be delivered tonight. Will you come back to eat?”

Joe’s lips curled slightly. He replied, “Yes.”

On Friday, Skylar finished restoring Frank’s painting. When Frank saw the restored antique, tears welled up. “Skye’s restoration skills are amazing! She’s completely restored it in such a short time.”

Alexander, standing nearby, was equally astonished. He knew better than anyone how damaged the painting had been. He was even more impressed by Skylar’s skill. She truly lived up to being Viola’s apprentice. Alexander wondered if Skylar might one day surpass Viola.

“In fact, her restoration skills are already better than mine,” Alexander thought with dismay. When he saw the painting, he doubted he could have restored it so well.

“Skylar’s technique is outstanding. It’s probably difficult to find another person like her in Jipsburg,” Alexander complimented.

Frank nodded repeatedly. “Yes, you’re right. It’s really hard to find another one like her. Oh, right, Skye, I’ve investigated the matter we discussed last time. It turns out someone intentionally got Nigel to buy that traditional dress to harm Grace. We’ve handled the matter, and Grace is recovering well.”

Hearing this, Skylar smiled. “That’s good to hear. Grace will recover soon.” However, a lingering unease remained. She kept thinking about Nigel. Had he really been deceived?

After briefly considering this, Skylar smiled. Since Frank said everything had been investigated, she assumed it was true.

Once Frank confirmed the painting was fine, he transferred the remaining payment to the company’s account. Alexander promptly sent Skylar her fee, as agreed. Skylar was happy to see her bank balance increase.

The next day was the weekend, and she planned to go home. She decided to stop by the mall after work to buy clothes for Janine.

Janine was beautiful but rarely spent money on herself. She wore the same clothes for years and seldom used skincare products. Despite this, her skin was naturally fair and well-maintained, even with just simple baby cream. She had few wrinkles, even better than Sadie’s, despite Sadie’s daily skincare routine.

After work, Skylar went to the mall. She bought two skincare and makeup sets and clothes and shoes according to Janine’s measurements. She filled her car’s trunk.

The next day, as she was about to leave, Joe glanced at her. Noticing his stare, she smiled and cheerfully asked, “Would you like to come with me to see my family? My mom’s cooking is really good, much better than mine.”

Though she asked, Skylar knew Joe wouldn’t come. They weren’t at that stage yet.

Chapter 296

Skylar asked Joe out of politeness. His eyes flickered, and he closed his book. “I have a video conference in an hour. Maybe next time,” he replied.

Skylar nodded with a smile. “Okay, I’m leaving then.”

“Wait.”

Skylar stopped, puzzled. Why did he seem reluctant to let her go?

“Anything else?” she asked.

Joe set down his book and walked over. His height advantage caused him to lower his head to look at her. His gaze seemed affectionate.

“You…” Joe’s gaze dropped to her collarbone. “Are you sure you want to visit your family with that?”

Following his gaze, Skylar blushed. “I didn’t notice.”

Last night, Joe had left hickeys on her skin.

If she claimed it was an allergy or mosquito bites, no one would believe her.

Skylar hurried upstairs to change. When she returned, she said, “Next time, can you try not to leave marks?” She wouldn't know how to explain them to colleagues.

Joe smirked. “Can’t promise about what happens in bed. I’ll try my best.”

Skylar wasn’t sure what to say.

Chapter 206 (This should likely be Chapter 296 or there's a numbering error)

In bed, he was a beast; out of bed, he was well-dressed and proper. They seemed like different people.

Thinking of last night, Skylar quickly left.

Seeing Skylar flee, Joe chuckled. Was she shy? She hadn’t seemed shy biting him last night; the marks were still visible.

Janine was excited about the family gathering. Early that morning, she went to the market to buy groceries. She made a little of everything her children liked.

Now that her children were grown, Janine found herself less busy. As she cooked, she reflected on her life. Thinking of her late husband, her eyes reddened. She looked forward to seeing him again and telling him how well she raised their children. They had all grown up well, and Harvey, the youngest, was excelling in his studies.

Soon, the table was filled with dishes. Skylar arrived before Steven and Charles. Harvey saw her carrying things. “Skye, why did you buy so many things?”

“I still have more in the car. Come with me to get the rest,” Skylar replied.

Harvey looked at the skincare products and clothes. “Are these for Mom?”

Chapter 297