Chapter 441

Even Joe was surprised. Skylar had easily driven him to lose control and he was furious for hours afterward. She hid in the bathroom after they finished.

At breakfast, she avoided eye contact with Joe. After eating, she grabbed her bag and said, "I'm going to work now."

"I'll drive you," Joe replied, his voice still hoarse and low from their morning activities. It was surprisingly sexy.

Skylar's heart skipped a beat. "That won't be necessary. I'll drive myself."

"Can you even step on the gas?" Joe asked.

Skylar took two steps forward, feeling as if she were walking on lava. She turned back and glared at him. "It's all your fault!"

"That's why I'm trying to take responsibility. Give me three minutes," Joe said, brimming with glee.

A few minutes later, Skylar sat in Joe's car. Lucas was waiting outside. His presence prevented the awkwardness of Skylar being alone with Joe.

After Joe got in, he interlocked their fingers. His palm was warm against her clammy one. Gradually, she warmed up.

Skylar's heart raced; her feelings were spiraling. Joe furrowed his brows and softly asked, "Why are your hands still so cold?"

Skylar looked at him. Despite his concern, his unaffected expression suggested emotional distance. Her racing heart stilled.

"Your hands are too warm," Skylar explained.

Joe covered her hand with his other, effectively imprisoning her between his arms. His embrace was as warm as his palms, making her feel cared for and protected, almost as if he were in love with her.

Skylar looked down in silence.

Joe attributed her silence to exhaustion from their morning activities. He didn't push the conversation, instead hugging her tighter.

Seeing them, Lucas mused on their improved relationship. He'd never seen Joe so considerate of a woman. Paul, however, wouldn't have been so calm.

News of the Williamses' situation spread rapidly, becoming public knowledge within days. Earlier that day, Peter had announced the bankruptcy of the Williams Group, leaving them deeply in debt and besieged by creditors. Their properties would be liquidated. He'd barely finished his announcement when the police took him to the station for questioning, plunging the Williams family into further chaos.

Crowds gathered outside the Williams residence—journalists, employees, and creditors. Only Kenny, Samuel, Maisy, and the paralyzed Sadie remained inside.