Chapter 674

Jenny's eyes, filled with concern, showed more care for Joe than Skylar, his wife, did. Joe's expression remained impassive. The shift in atmosphere surprised Paul; Skylar remained calm. Gloria subtly eased the tension, replying with a hint of indifference, “It’s normal for jobs to be tough. Skye’s work is challenging, too.” She knew from experience that repetitive tasks demanded patience and resilience. Viola used to say that talent was only part of the equation; character and endurance were even more crucial.

Jenny's smile faltered. “Yes, Skylar’s work is very demanding.” She hadn't expected Gloria to defend Skylar so staunchly, especially with Joe present. While they spoke, Paul prepared the packed meals. Noticing the shift in atmosphere, Jenny excused herself and left.

After leaving the hospital, Jenny took a cab home to her newly decorated house, reflecting Rowan’s thoughtful design choices. Living alone in such a large space, however, she felt overwhelmingly lonely and isolated. Witnessing Skylar's interaction with Gloria and Joe's focus on Skylar, she felt like an outsider. Despite her efforts to integrate herself, she felt shut out, stirring jealousy. She couldn't understand Joe's distance since her return to Jipsburg, and his embrace of Skylar.

With no one to confide in, she called Rowan. There was no answer. She remembered his distance since her successful interview; days had passed without contact. “Rowan, are you distancing yourself from me too?” she murmured, scrolling through his Instagram. His feed was stuck on a post about his engagement; nothing since. Their chat history ended with her question about the house renovations, unanswered. He had completely ignored her. Could he have really given up on her? Frustrated, she quickly donned her coat and took a cab to his place.

Someone opened the door. As it swung open, Jenny froze. It wasn't Rowan, but his fiancée, Minerva Reid. Minerva wore Rowan's shirt, radiating a subtle allure and innocent charm. The sight was striking.

Jenny's face paled. “You…”

“Are you looking for Rowan? He’s in the shower. You can wait inside,” Minerva said calmly.

Seeing Minerva's confident demeanor, Jenny recalled her previous stay, when Rowan had catered to her every need. Just days later, another woman was living in his home. Minerva recognized Jenny, aware of her connection to Joe and Rowan's affection for her. It was clear, however, that Jenny had shown no interest in Rowan. With their engagement publicly acknowledged, Minerva had nothing to hide.