Chapter 659

In Jipsburg City, it was common knowledge that Aiken showed little interest in women. He had many around him, several as attractive as Skylar. However, Skylar would never stoop to being just another woman in Aiken's circle.

Edwin sneered. "That sounds far-fetched, doesn't it? Perhaps Aiken is merely using this as an excuse to dismiss me. He might even be developing feelings for Skylar."

Molly added, "It's not surprising. If Joe values Skylar so highly, she's clearly not the naive country bumpkin we initially assumed."

Edwin's expression darkened. "Regardless of her background, her status makes her unsuitable as my daughter-in-law. Since Aiken refused, he clearly won't participate. And he won't betray our conversation."

"You'll have to find someone else. Were it not for the risk of Joe's suspicion, we'd use our own people—it would be far simpler, and we wouldn't need Aiken. Handling someone like Skylar is proving unexpectedly difficult."

Molly sensed Edwin's growing displeasure with Skylar. She, too, found the situation more complicated than anticipated; Skylar was proving troublesome.

Recalling Skylar's calm demeanor during their confrontation, Molly felt a growing unease. Joe and Skylar, it seemed, were inseparable, regardless of their actions.

"No one is as reliable as Aiken," Molly stated firmly. It was undeniable; otherwise, Edwin wouldn't have contacted him directly.

Edwin frowned. "Just one woman, and she's causing this much trouble."

"If we can't find an alternative, I'll look overseas. We must ensure no trace remains," Molly suggested thoughtfully.

Edwin considered this and nodded. "That's feasible."

When Skylar returned to Galaxy Villa, she encountered Joe, who had also just arrived.

"You're just getting back, too?" Skylar asked, surprised.

"I had an unexpected matter to attend to. Incidentally, do you know Aiken Parkinson?" Joe asked casually.

Skylar replied honestly, "I didn't know him before today. I know his sister, Simona. She invited me to their home to appraise some antiques."

Joe nodded. "I see."

Skylar considered asking Joe if he knew Aiken, but realized their mutual residence in Jipsburg made their acquaintance quite plausible.

As they entered the house and changed into slippers, Skylar heard Joe's stomach rumble. It wasn't loud, but the quiet of Galaxy Villa amplified even small sounds.

Joe slightly furrowed his brow. Skipping dinner was habitual; a growling stomach was unremarkable. However, his habits had subtly shifted since living with Skylar. Dinner had become the norm, and now, missing a meal caused discomfort.

"Did you skip dinner because you were busy?" Skylar asked hesitantly, also feeling a bit hungry. She hadn't eaten much at the Parkinson residence.

"I forgot to eat."

Skylar smiled. "Alright, I didn't eat much at the Parkinson Residence either. I'm a bit hungry. I'll make us some instant pasta." A full meal at this hour would take too long.

"Alright."

Joe followed Skylar into the kitchen. He raised an eyebrow as she produced two cups of instant pasta. With a slight smile, he asked, "When did you buy instant pasta?"