Chapter 703

Natalie was surprised. "You have time?" It seemed she hadn't misunderstood; Skylar and Joe were clearly developing a romantic relationship. Skylar was remarkable; she'd managed to ensure Joe stayed, brought her lunch, and made it abundantly clear he wanted their time uninterrupted. To claim she felt nothing was disingenuous.

"Yes, I have plenty of time," Joe replied tersely. His clipped speech betrayed a man who found words burdensome. He appeared utterly detached and indifferent. Fortunately, Natalie was emotionally resilient, and she'd heard much about Joe from Jeremy.

Skylar seized the opportunity. "I'm feeling much better now. I don't need anyone to stay with me tonight. You two should go home and rest. If I need anything, I'll call the nurse." Her injuries weren't debilitating; she could manage. As she spoke, their eyes met briefly before she looked away.

Joe remained silent. Noticing the tension, Natalie decided to leave. She put down her cutlery, pretended to check her phone, and announced, "I just remembered something I need to attend to. I'll be going now. Enjoy your lunch." She grabbed her bag and swiftly exited, winking at Skylar as she closed the door.

Chapter 703

It was evident Skylar had captivated Joe's heart unlike anyone else. The atmosphere shifted with only the two of them remaining. Joe set up lunch and asked, "Have you eaten enough?"

"No," Skylar admitted honestly. She and Natalie had barely eaten before his arrival. She recalled Natalie saying Joe could instantly ignite or extinguish one's appetite. Indeed, his commanding presence and cold demeanor could easily suppress one's hunger. Skylar remembered Natalie's description—though she hadn't known Joe then, she'd imagined anyone capable of that must be exceptional. Now, watching Natalie leave without finishing, Skylar couldn't help but chuckle, remembering that past observation. Joe wasn't so intimidating once one got to know him.

Lost in thought, she didn't notice Joe approach. Before she knew it, his lips were on hers, his hand gently resting on her head, preventing her from pulling away. The kiss was deep and lingering.

"Ms. Sullivan, it's time for your bandage change." A nurse entered, saw the scene, blushed, and quickly retreated, stammering, "I saw nothing. Uh, I'll return in half an hour. You two, continue..." She was stunned. The scene was movie-like, and the couple appeared more striking than any movie stars.