Chapter 296

When Skylar noticed Joe looking at her, she politely asked him out. Joe's eyes flickered; he closed his book. "I have a video conference in an hour. Maybe next time," he replied.

Skylar smiled and nodded. "Okay, I'm leaving then."

"Wait."

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

"Anything else?" she asked.

Joe set down his book and approached, his long legs covering the distance quickly. He lowered his head to look at her, the height difference making it necessary. His gaze seemed almost affectionate.

"You…" His gaze dropped to her collarbone. "Are you sure you want to visit your family wearing that?"

Following his gaze, Skylar blushed. "I didn't notice."

Last night, Joe had again left hickeys on her skin. They were clearly visible. Claiming an allergy or mosquito bite would be unconvincing.

Skylar hurried upstairs to change into something that covered the marks. Returning downstairs, she confronted Joe. "Next time, please try not to leave marks." She wouldn't know how to explain them to her colleagues.

Joe smirked. "Can't promise what happens in bed. I'll try my best."

His nonchalance left Skylar speechless.

Chapter 206

In bed, he was a beast; out of bed, he was well-dressed and proper. The two personas seemed irreconcilable.

Thinking of last night, Skylar quickly fled.

Seeing her embarrassed retreat, Joe chuckled. Was she shy? She hadn't seemed shy when she bit him on the shoulder last night; the marks were still visible.

Janine was excited about the family gathering. Early that morning, she went to the market for groceries, preparing a variety of dishes to accommodate everyone's preferences. With her children grown and independent, she found herself less busy than before. While cooking, she reflected on her life.

Thinking of her late husband, Janine's eyes welled up. She looked forward to seeing him again and telling him how well she had raised their children. They had all thrived, and Harvey, the youngest, was excelling in his studies and poised to enter his chosen university. Their success filled her with contentment.

Soon, the table was laden with food. Skylar arrived before Steven and Charles.

Harvey saw her carrying numerous items. "Skye, why did you buy so many things?"

"I have more in the car. Come help me get them," Skylar replied, setting down her load.

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