Chapter 588

“What?” Paul exclaimed in disbelief.

How had Skylar ended up in a vegetative state? She had been perfectly healthy just a day earlier. One trip to Liberty County, and she was now in a vegetative state? Had the doctors properly examined her? Had they developed a proper treatment plan?

Paul immediately turned to Joe, whose expression, as he expected, was frigid. “Exhaust every method,” Joe ordered. “We will never accept this as her future.”

Robert Harrison, head of Jipsburg Hospital, sighed deeply. “We’ve compiled her medical reports and consulted experts overseas,” he replied. “They all agree this is an unsolvable problem. Mr. Martin, we can only hope for a miracle.” He made it clear that no one knew how to help Skylar. It wasn't a lack of willingness; Joe cared deeply about the patient. They'd considered every possibility, but found no viable option.

After the doctors left, Paul immediately asked Joe, “Mr. Martin, should I contact overseas hospitals? And should I inform Mrs. Martin’s family? They still don’t know Ms. Sullivan’s condition.”

There was also Gloria. Keeping this from her could be devastating if she discovered it later.

Two days earlier, Alexander and Harry had returned from Liberty County. Hearing that Jipsburg Hospital couldn't save her brought on another wave of self-blame. They had sought help from numerous sources and also helped keep the news from Gloria.

“Please leave,” Joe ordered coldly.

Paul, frozen in surprise, swiftly left the room.

Joe sat by Skylar’s bed, staring down at her. The room was silent.

Suddenly, a notification chimed. It was Charles calling Skylar. Her phone had been silent for three days. This was the first incoming call. Joe briefly glanced at the phone, then ignored it, unsure what to say to Charles.

Another call came in—still Charles. Joe furrowed his brows.

Then, a hoarse female voice whispered beside him, “The phone…”

Surprise registered on Joe’s face. He turned to see Skylar opening her eyes, then narrowing them against the brightness.

Skylar felt disoriented, seeing Joe. “You…” she said, her throat dry and scratchy, as if she’d been severely ill.

Joe was stunned. He stared at her in shock.

Skylar, equally dumbfounded by his gaze, tried to speak, but the pain in her throat was excruciating. Unable to sit up, she could only stare at him.

Their eyes met, and Joe finally snapped out of his stupor. He abruptly stood, strode to the door, and instructed Paul, “Get Dr. Stone, her primary physician, here immediately!”

Skylar, finally realizing something was amiss upon waking, understood she was in the hospital.