Chapter 83

Jeffrey realized Skylar no longer feared him as her father. Previously, a stern look would elicit apologies and attempts to please him. Now, she seemed unafraid.

"You little—"

Suddenly, the door behind them opened, and Joe entered. He looked at Jeffrey impassively, his gaze calmly sweeping over the man's raised hand. Jeffrey, startled by the sound, turned to see the newcomer. His expression changed.

Joe?

"M-Mr. Martin!" Maisy exclaimed.

Skylar, pale-faced, looked at Joe. Joe frowned. Had he arrived a moment later, would Jeffrey have struck her? The Williams family's treatment of her seemed worse than he'd imagined.

"Are you trying to hit her, Mr. Williams?" Paul asked, surprised. Jeffrey's attempt at violence in front of the Martin Group entrance was incredibly bold. Paul noticed Skylar's pale complexion. Was she scared?

"I—I didn't mean to hit her. She's my daughter. She did something wrong, and I was just talking to her about it. Sorry for letting you see this, Mr. Martin," Jeffrey stammered, immediately feeling his explanation inadequate.

If Paul were Skylar's sugar daddy, Jeffrey would have gained an advantage; Paul was clearly someone Joe trusted. The Williams family would be unrivaled in Jipsburg if one daughter were with Paul and the other with Joe.

"Yes, my dad had something to discuss with Skylar, but she wasn't listening. Please don't misunderstand, Mr. Martin," Maisy hurriedly defended Jeffrey. She noticed Skylar seemed even more beautiful lately. Despite her own expensive professional attire, Maisy couldn't outshine Skylar in jeans and a white T-shirt. She subtly shifted, hoping to block Skylar and draw Joe's attention to her own beauty.

Joe ignored them both, looking directly at Skylar. "Did they hit you?"

Chapter 83 (continued)

After all, she was his wife. If Jeffrey hit her, it would be the same as hitting him.

"Not yet," Skylar said, stunned. Was he worried about her?

Joe's gaze was deep and unnerving. He merely hummed in acknowledgment.

"Mr. Martin, she's my daughter. How could I hit her? I came here today to talk to you. I hope you can spare me a few minutes," Jeffrey quickly interjected, seizing the opportunity.

He discreetly glanced at Paul again. Paul's importance to Joe was evident; otherwise, Joe wouldn't have immediately defended Skylar. He must have known Skylar was Paul's woman. Paul was more useful than Christopher. As a businessman, he made the calculation swiftly.