Chapter 774

Skylar felt particularly low. Unresolved issues with Joe weighed heavily on her, a burden difficult to articulate.

"I'm fine. Don't worry," she assured Natalie.

Natalie raised an eyebrow but didn't press. She was concerned; Skylar had already been hurt by Christopher, and now this. She hoped Skylar wouldn't suppress her emotions. Skylar's cheerful demeanor after their meal had been comforting, their conversation lingering as dusk settled.

"I should go," Natalie said, glancing at the time. "Make sure you and Ms. Yancey get some rest."

"I'll drive you," Skylar offered, grabbing her keys. Natalie hadn't driven that day, having come straight from the film set.

As Natalie began to refuse, her phone rang—Hank.

"Oh? Okay, I'm not far. I'll head over."

Ending the call, Natalie explained, "Looks like you'll give me a ride after all. Mr. Powell and the crew over-indulged. Hank has a pressing matter and can't pick up Mr. Powell, so I'll have to."

"Alright, let's go," Skylar agreed.

They headed to Skylar's car.

"Will Ms. Yancey be okay alone?"

"Fine. I'll call Mom."

They soon arrived at a Floan restaurant. Skylar followed Natalie inside. In the private room, three or four inebriated people remained; the others had apparently left. They were awaiting a ride. Drunk driving was strictly enforced in Jispsburg City, celebrities especially cautious.

Skylar waited outside. After greeting the others, Natalie approached Austin. "Mr. Powell, I'm here to take you home."

Though quite drunk, Austin rested on a couch, eyes closed. He appeared asleep but opened them at Natalie's voice. His gaze softened upon seeing her.

"Alright, let's go," he said, rising. He seemed steady at first, but as he took a step, Natalie noticed his unsteady gait and quickly steadied him. "The car's outside. I checked; no reporters."

Austin nodded gently, humming softly, allowing Natalie's support.

Reaching the door, they saw Skylar. Austin recognized her. "Nath's friend?"

Skylar smiled and nodded.

The three exited the private room and took the elevator. As the doors opened on the ground floor, they paused.

"What's going on?" Skylar asked, peering out. Her gaze froze.

It was a coincidence. Joe and Jeremy, along with others, stood there.

Joe didn't initially notice her, his attention on Natalie and Austin. But his eyes quickly swept over them when he saw someone else. Skylar sensed a shift in his expression and looked away. She then saw Jeremy's cold gaze fixed on Natalie, who was now arm-in-arm with Austin; his silent anger was palpable.

Skylar silently reflected that a few minutes earlier would have avoided this encounter.