Chapter 45

Christopher only learned about Skylar's post because Maisy texted him. He hadn't noticed it initially, assuming Skylar was still upset. He realized he was doomed only upon seeing the photo she'd posted: proof she'd discovered his affair with Maisy.

Unprecedented fear gripped Christopher. Skylar's social media post meant she was severing ties permanently. He'd always believed he hadn't liked Skylar that much, yet now realized he couldn't accept their breakup.

After restoring antiques all afternoon, Skylar washed her hands, left the workspace for lunch, and checked her phone afterward. She first returned calls from Janine, Steven, and Charles, assuring them not to worry. Then, she noticed several messages from her best friend, Natalie Jakeman.

Natalie, a close friend from college, had married after graduation and been a devoted housewife for the past six months. Skylar returned Natalie's call.

The phone rang briefly before Natalie answered. "What on earth is going on, Skye?" she asked.

Skylar gave few details, simply explaining Christopher's infidelity. Natalie knew Maisy. She hadn't been in Jipsburg City during Skylar's previous troubles; when she returned to visit, the Williams family had turned Skylar away.

"Way to go, Skye! Great job breaking up with him! He never impressed me. I'll introduce you to some guys—better ones, I bet!" Natalie assured her. Knowing Skylar well, she sensed Skylar was handling the situation well, impressed by her ability to let go. It was exactly what she expected from her friend.

After a few more words, Skylar ended the call and checked other unanswered calls. Samuel had called multiple times, as had Christopher and Amelia. Even Skylar's high school friends had contacted her on social media.

Skylar didn't respond, feeling they didn't genuinely care, except for her family and Natalie. Most were likely eager for the drama.

After a pause, Skylar returned Samuel's call.

He answered quickly. "Skye, delete your post immediately. Post an update saying you had a bad day and only posted that photoshopped picture because you were emotional. Apologize to Maisy."

Samuel's tone was stern, almost commanding.

"Who said the picture was photoshopped?" Skylar sneered.

She'd spent her past life trying to please the three Williams brothers and win over Sadie, all to no avail. She wondered if they were all lunatics for constantly bossing her around.

"It's not photoshopped? So it's real? Why would Maisy be with your boyfriend? Jealousy is one thing, but this crosses the line! Your boyfriend's poor; he only has looks going for him! Maisy would never be interested!" Samuel glanced at Maisy, who watched him anxiously. He motioned for her to stay calm, refusing to believe Skylar, regardless of her explanation.

Kenny then asked for the phone.

"You were brash and inconsiderate! How dare you slander Maisy with a random, photoshopped picture? Do you think we'd believe you after you and Christopher lived together and then fought over money? If you don't want this to escalate, do as Samuel says!" he barked.

"You and your family are lunatics. I don't care if you believe me, but isn't Maisy feeling guilty? Actually, I haven't made a big enough deal of this. Go ahead and call the police. It'll save me the trouble," Skylar seethed.