Chapter 40

Joe's expression was slightly tense, as if he were about to say something uncomfortable. Skylar wasn't in a hurry to leave the car; they had already arrived at Galaxy Villa. She waited silently for Joe to speak.

"I wasn't thorough in investigating today's matters and misunderstood you. I'm sorry," Joe said. His naturally cold tone felt jarringly inappropriate for an apology.

Skylar was upset that Joe had misunderstood her, thinking she was still involved with Christopher. However, her anger subsided after his apology.

She replied, "It's okay. We can still request to begin divorce proceedings tomorrow at the courthouse. We'll receive our official divorce decree after the mandatory cooling-off period."

"Even if we're divorced, we can maintain our pretense for Grandma. I'll continue to care for her regularly."

Skylar believed she could devise a solution that offered the best of both worlds.

Joe frowned. "Grandma will know immediately after we file for divorce. Let's stick with the agreement and divorce after three years."

Skylar blinked and raised an eyebrow. She asked mockingly, "Aren't you afraid I'll covet you and Martin Group? What if you accidentally fall in love with me? What then?"

Did Joe seriously think she was docile and without a temper? Although she had accepted his apology, it didn't mean he could simply end or continue the agreement at will. Did he think she couldn't see his wariness, his fear that she might steal his heart?

Joe's charming face creased awkwardly. "Me falling for you is impossible. Don't worry. You'll get your ten million dollars—not a cent less—on the day our agreement ends."

Skylar shrugged. "I'll let this slide for Grandma's sake. However, I will end the agreement immediately if you slander me again based on a photograph without verifying the truth."

Joe's expression darkened. "Sure."

They exited the car and entered the villa, one after the other. Skylar, hungry from skipping dinner, went to the kitchen, politely asking, "I'm going to make dinner. Would you like some?"

Joe froze halfway up the stairs. His dark gaze snapped to Skylar, who met his surprised gaze. He quickly looked away, responding, "Sure, thanks."

"Be downstairs in half an hour," Skylar said, secretly sighing at his incredibly good looks. He exuded an air of superiority, attractive yet unapproachable. He was decisive in business, possessing the domineering presence of an influential businessman—the type most women found appealing. Alas, Skylar found him a little too egotistical. She mentally complained but continued searching the refrigerator for ingredients.

She found tomatoes, chicken broth, basic seasonings, and cheese. There was no pasta, but she found bread. Skylar decided to make tomato soup with croutons. Warm soup would soothe their stomachs.

Having watched Janine cook since childhood, Skylar possessed nearly as much skill.

Half an hour later, Joe smelled a tantalizing aroma. He went to the kitchen and saw Skylar ladling soup from a pot containing lumps. This confused him. He remembered her delicious food from previous days and wondered if she had overcooked the noodles, causing them to break apart.

"There's another bowl for you. If it's not enough, you can get more," Skylar said kindly, noticing his dazed expression.

"Did you overcook the noodles?" Joe finally asked aloud.