Chapter 764

Skylar had barely slept. Joe had used her as a human pillow, pinning her down and preventing her from moving. The oppressive heat felt like being trapped in a summer sauna. She layered on concealer to hide the dark circles under her eyes and drank a large cup of coffee to function; otherwise, she wasn't sure she could manage the day.

“Don’t worry. I don’t mind the discomfort,” Joe replied quickly.

Skylar forced a tight smile. The traffic was light, so she dropped Joe off at Martin Group before heading to work. Immediately after clocking in, Steven and Charles called to check on Janine’s condition. They were busy but promised to bring lunch.

Skylar immersed herself in her work. After lunch, she returned to the office, ready to tackle her tasks. Just as she began, Caleb burst in. “Skylar, come with me. My grandfather called; he’s furious. He hasn’t even touched his lunch. When I asked him what’s wrong, he just glared and wouldn’t explain.”

Minutes later, Skylar met Alexander. His face was clouded with anger. “I contacted the grandfather of that Ruell girl. We’re not close, but we’ve known each other for years. I never expected him to dismiss me as senile, claiming I was out of touch and that the artifacts lacked power. It’s infuriating! I was just trying to help!”

In Jipsburg, few dared disregard his authority. A distant acquaintance rejecting his credibility was shocking.

“Grandpa, don’t let it bother you. If they prefer trouble, let them. If anything major happens, they shouldn’t expect your or Skylar’s involvement,” Caleb remarked.

Skylar filled a cup of water and placed it on Alexander’s desk. “What’s meant to happen will happen. You’ve warned them; there’s no reason to feel guilty.”

“You’re right.” Alexander’s expression softened. He seemed more at ease. He valued his integrity and hadn't wanted to stand idly by while Jipsburg families were potentially harmed. But after his warning was met with skepticism, he decided to step back; further interference would be seen as meddling.

Caleb was speechless. His attempts to convince Alexander were futile; only Skylar’s words seemed to have any effect.

After Denton ended his call with Alexander, his displeasure was evident—the frustration of being criticized. Vera was present when Alexander called. She had previously described her auction observations to Denton, leading to a poor impression of Alexander. As a result, Denton was disinclined to continue the conversation.

“Mr. Gardner Senior is really getting old. How can he believe in such nonsense at his age?” Vera said, displeased. Alexander's call had derailed her plan to surprise her grandfather.

Though also irritated, Denton managed a smile. “It’s common. As people age and fear death, they often believe in irrational things. Mr. Gardner Senior might be distinguished, but that doesn’t mean I lack competence. My time away from the company has allowed me to study antiques; he was likely misled.”

“I’ve learned much from you. Knowing this, I’ll arrange for someone to bring the items so you can examine them,” Vera offered.

“Alright, have them sent over.”

An hour later, household staff delivered antique paintings. Denton, an avid collector, spent his free time admiring his collection. He’d heard George’s building was filled with antiques, but believed his own collection far surpassed it.

“I’ll unroll it for you,” Vera said, carefully unfolding a painting.