Chapter 37

“Let’s go to the courthouse tomorrow at 9:30 a.m. What compensation would you like?” Joe asked. He had never been stingy. Although Skylar had ulterior motives for approaching him, she had undeniably brought great pleasure to Gloria. He sensed her sincerity toward Gloria.

“I don’t need any compensation,” Skylar refused outright.

Viola’s letter had stated that Skylar could achieve great success and wealth if she desired.

She continued, “But I hope you won’t prevent Grandma from contacting me if she wants to see me or needs my help. After all, Grandma Gloria and Grandma Viola are elders I love and respect.”

Joe knew Viola; he’d met her a few times. She was a mysterious elder and Gloria’s friend.

Although Skylar knew Viola, a trustworthy person, it didn't necessarily mean Skylar’s intentions were pure.

“I almost forgot,” Skylar said suddenly. “You promised to cease supporting the Williams family after we registered our marriage. I hope you’ll keep that promise.”

She had said everything she needed to say.

Joe gazed at Skylar, pondering her words. Her demeanor suggested innocence, while he felt like he was the one starting a fight to end their agreement.

“Sure,” he answered with a frown.

They reached a consensus. They only needed to go to the courthouse the next day to finalize their divorce.

Skylar picked up her bag and headed upstairs. “I’m going to pack my things. I’ll move out of Galaxy Villa tomorrow. By then, you should tell Grandma—”

“After spending these past few days together, we realized our personalities are incompatible. We can’t foresee living together. I’m sure Grandma will understand.”

Skylar raised an eyebrow, surprised by Joe’s prepared excuse.

She sensed his caution and skepticism. Without waiting for him to speak further, she continued upstairs.

“There’s no rush to pack your things. You can do it after we return from the courthouse tomorrow. I’ll have Paul drop you off,” Joe said.

Skylar shook her head. “I don’t have many things; it’s no trouble to pack them now.”

Joe remained silent, his expression sullen.

Chapter 37 2/2

Ten minutes later, Joe stood in the doorway of Skylar’s room. He looked at the packed suitcases and the room, restored to its state before Skylar moved in. She didn’t seem attached to Galaxy Villa.

An inexplicable feeling gnawed at Joe’s heart; he began to doubt his assumptions.

Before he could think further, he faced Skylar, who was looking up at him. He said, “Grandma’s heart isn’t doing well; she’s been hospitalized. We must go to her immediately.”

Skylar’s heart pounded. “Didn’t Grandma say she felt better these past two days?”

“I just received word from the hospital. We’ll know more once we get there,” Joe answered quietly.

Skylar dropped the sheets she had been tidying. “Let’s hurry.”

“Yeah.”

Traffic was light, and they reached the hospital within half an hour. They went directly to Gloria’s ward.

Upon arrival, Edgar explained Gloria’s condition: “Mrs. Martin Senior briefly regained consciousness earlier. She wanted me to relay a message. She wants you to go out for some food first. She has something to tell you both once she wakes up.”