Chapter 662

Skylar's striking appearance could make any man's heart flutter. No wonder Joe was so invested in her and reluctant to divorce. Skylar replied calmly, "I am."

Joe took her hand firmly, his grip encompassing hers completely. "She's my wife," he declared resolutely, his tone unwavering. His pride in her was evident, bolstering his confidence and strengthening his resolve.

Watching from the sidelines, Edgar felt a surge of warmth. He thought Gloria could finally rest easy—Joe genuinely cared for Skylar. It was clear he was defending Skylar before Edwin, something he'd never done with such earnestness.

Edwin's face darkened. He saw Joe only as an ungrateful son. "You two only have a marriage certificate," he said coldly. "Many in Jipsburg City are still unaware of your relationship."

Molly, still present, subtly frowned. Joe's concern for Skylar was more profound than she anticipated; a softness, perhaps even tenderness, shone in his eyes, though he might not have recognized it himself.

"I'm preparing for the wedding," Joe said coldly. "You'll be notified. For now, we should focus on Grandma's condition. If anything happens to her, you will be held accountable."

Edwin's anger was palpable. "Do you realize what you're saying?" he demanded. The elderly were fragile; sudden illness wasn't uncommon, yet Joe dared to blame him.

"With everything going on with the Martin family, you'd better postpone the wedding," Edwin added sharply.

Skylar felt Edwin's hostility acutely. Despite Joe's words, the wedding likely wouldn't happen. Aside from Gloria, the rest of the Martin family wouldn't accept Skylar.

Skylar, however, felt even more determined to stay with Joe. She wanted the Martin family, who had failed to care for him, to see their harmonious life together.

Joe's lips curled into a cold smile. "The Martin family has a lot going on. What does that have to do with me?" He was determined, unstoppable.

"The wedding must go on," Joe declared, his voice firming with each word. "I won't let my wife be wronged." His tone conveyed a stark disagreement with his father.

Skylar kept her head down, appearing obedient. Yet, a doubt stirred; was Joe calling her his wife merely to provoke Edwin?

This thought was quickly dismissed. Regardless of his motives, she couldn't dwell on it.

Edwin's expression darkened. "Your grandmother isn't feeling well; this isn't the time. We'll talk later."

Joe sneered, glancing at Molly. "Aren't you leaving yet?"

Molly's face stiffened. Years as Mrs. Martin had accustomed her to respect and deference. Her elevated status had dulled her awareness of disdain. Now, facing Joe's cold stare and command, a storm of emotions welled within her.

Chapter 663