Chapter 827

Jenny didn't share the doctor's sentiments. "It mustn't leave a scar," she complained. "It would look horrible on me." She had to be perfect; otherwise, Joe would disdain her. Unresponsive to his advice, the doctor left after explaining her condition.

Jenny felt wronged. The doctors' attitude was appalling. Their impatience and dismissal of her concerns felt inappropriate. She called Joe to complain, but he didn't answer. Resigned, she called Paul.

"Is Joe busy?" she pleaded weakly. "Mr. Ziegler, I've been in and out of consciousness at the hospital for days. I haven't seen Joe. I'm feeling better today. Could you ask him to come after work?"

Paul replied, "Mr. Martin is extremely busy. He doesn't have time for a hospital visit. Ms. Scott, please speak normally; you're creeping me out."

Her affected weakness unnerved Paul. Perhaps he was unfeeling; he certainly didn't know how to comfort a woman. Even her voice annoyed him.

Jenny's face drained of color. "M-Mr. Ziegler," she stammered, "you've always disliked me. I feel you don't want Joe to see me. Have I done something to warrant this?"

Paul's respectful treatment of Skylar highlighted the contrast. "Ms. Scott, don't play innocent," he said. "You know if you've done anything wrong. Mr. Martin paid your medical fees. You're on your own now, so watch yourself." He clearly wanted nothing more to do with her.

Jenny felt wronged by Paul. She clung to the belief Joe should be concerned about her serious accident. Edwin, however, hadn't contacted her since learning of it.

Aside from the potential scar, Jenny enjoyed her hospitalization. After all, she didn't have to deal with Edwin.

Joe reached Galaxy Villa before Skylar. A dinner, ordered from a hotel, awaited her. The dishes still steamed; he must have counted the minutes until her return.

They didn't discuss things immediately. After dinner, Joe began, "You can tell me about it now."

Skylar showed him a picture of an emerald pendant. "Have you seen this before?" she asked.

Joe expected pictures of Edwin and Jenny, like Paul had provided. "Is this an antique?" he asked, examining it closely. It was weathered, but he couldn't identify it further. He wasn't knowledgeable about antiques, but with Skylar, he didn't need to be.

"It's a Golden Age antique," Skylar replied, glancing at him. "Look at the carvings. They're consistent with talismans, and it gradually impairs control of one's thoughts and behavior."

"So, it's a negative item," Joe said, confused. Skylar's message had seemed urgent; he didn't think she just wanted to introduce him to this object.

"My guess is your father wore this for at least five years."