Chapter 39

Skylar found herself in a difficult position, brainstorming ways to refuse the ring. Joe spoke up. "Accept Grandma's blessing. It's my fault for neglecting to buy you a wedding ring."

Skylar's head whipped toward him, surprise flickering in her striking eyes. Even her thick, long lashes trembled slightly. Joe's gaze settled on her eyes. He paused before continuing, "Try it on for size."

"Okay," Skylar answered. She had no reason to refuse; both Gloria and Joe were convincing her to keep it. Ultimately, she decided not to disappoint Gloria, planning to return the ring to Joe privately later.

Upon opening the box, Skylar was surprised by the ring's splendor. No wonder people called it "The Darling Goddess Ring." Any woman would be awestruck and immediately want to own it. Skylar was no exception. Once the ring was on her finger, she felt as if even her hand had become more valuable.

"It's beautiful!" Gloria exclaimed. "Skye's hand has always been pretty and dainty, but it looks even better with this ring!"

Joe gazed intently at the flawless skin on Skylar's slender fingers. The Darling Goddess Ring added to her hand's radiant charm.

Gloria rolled her eyes at Joe. "Skye's hands suit sparkly gemstones like this. You should buy her a few more."

"There's no need, Grandma," Skylar said honestly. "It's inconvenient to wear rings when working; it would be a waste to buy me more." She couldn't wear jewelry on her hands while restoring antiques, including watches.

Gloria chuckled. "Those sparkly pieces are meant to adorn your jewelry box. They'll cheer you up. I was obsessed with diamonds when I was younger, but I also adored emeralds and other gemstones. You should come with me to Pearlhall Residence after I'm discharged. You have such a lovely complexion that those gemstones will look beautiful on you—"

Gloria then remembered something. "Oh, right. Do you like researching antiques, Skye? Can you authenticate them?"

Skylar nodded. "Yes, I can identify the authenticity of most antiques. Is there something you want me to examine, Grandma?"

"Not me. An old friend, who's taken up buying antiques, often buys fakes by accident. They want to organize their collection and are looking for someone trustworthy to authenticate their items," Gloria explained.

Skylar answered, "Sure, Grandma. I'll go with you when you're discharged."

They chatted a little longer, but Gloria soon fell asleep. Seeing this, Skylar left the ward with Joe, feeling safe knowing Edgar and the doctors were caring for Gloria. They then checked on Gloria's condition with her attending physician.

On the way home to Galaxy Villa, a stern silence filled the car. Only when Skylar was getting out did Joe call out, "Hang on."

Skylar sat back down, shooting a confused look at Joe. She had to admit he had an insanely attractive face and an authoritative presence.

She asked, "Is something the matter?"