Chapter 613

Charles narrowed his eyes, sensing something amiss. "Steven, are you keeping something from me?"

"There are matters I can't discuss yet," Steven replied, knowing Skylar was arranging a family meeting with Joe. "You'll find out soon enough."

Charles didn't press. "Alright. By the way, since you brought Annie home last time, you haven't mentioned her. I've heard rumors—she was fired from the TV station, and her family is having trouble. Are you—"

"We've broken up," Steven calmly interjected. Only Skylar knew.

Charles was startled. "You broke up?"

"It wasn't because of the Silver family's troubles," Steven explained briefly. "There were other issues I couldn't tolerate."

Charles furrowed his brows. He recalled rumors he'd dismissed, trusting Steven's judgment. Now, those rumors seemed plausible.

"Alright. Steven, if you need a drink, call me. I have some free time before my next role," Charles offered.

"Okay. I'm going to shower."

"Yeah, I should get to bed, too."

After the call, Charles contemplated Steven's words. He suspected it was just overthinking. He decided to let it go; Steven would explain soon enough. Eventually, he'd learn if Joe was genuinely interested in men. As long as he remained uninvolved, today's conversation would be a misunderstanding.

The following day, Skylar returned to work after a short break. Alexander called to check on her health and suggested she take more time off, but after her reassurance, he allowed her return. Her tasks, critical and only she could complete, were those she'd been working on before leaving for Liberty County. She worked diligently, ordering takeout for lunch. By day's end, Caleb messaged that he'd return in two days. Skylar was pleased; his return would expedite several routine processes.

In the parking lot, as she entered her car, someone opened the passenger door and got in. Skylar looked at the unexpected intruder: Kenny.

"Get out," Skylar said sharply.

"I'm your brother," Kenny retorted. "What's with your attitude? You haven't checked on us. You don't help when we're in trouble, and now this is how you treat me?"

His audacity was more brazen than before. Once a proud Williams heir, his fall from grace had emboldened his shameless behavior.