Chapter 833

Edwin's refusal was unsurprising; they expected it. Negative items often befuddled people. However, Molly's attempt to intervene aroused their suspicion.

Joe asked, "Was the pendant a gift, or did you acquire it at auction?"

Edwin sighed, relieved Joe hadn't insisted on immediate removal. "Oh, I bought it overseas. Eight million dollars. A bargain, wouldn't you say?"

"It's hardly an ordinary pendant. You wouldn't have launched a search party otherwise," Joe countered, his tone firm as he again demanded the pendant. Even Molly gasped at his insistence.

Edwin's face paled. "I've told you, it's insignificant! Why the fuss?" He produced the pendant.

The truth—Edwin's terror of Joe—would be unbelievable to most. This had been a source of considerable embarrassment for him. Yet, he understood Joe's methods; otherwise, why would he have remained abroad for years?

Once Joe examined the pendant, confirming its match to Skylar's photograph, he looked at her. Skylar nodded.

"I know what you've been doing overseas," Joe stated, looking up. "It might be connected to this pendant. Are you aware of the recent surge in negative items in Jipsburg?"

Edwin froze at the mention of negative items, his eyes darting nervously. "I heard Mr. Doherty's family mention a negative item," he stammered, "but this pendant isn't one. I've worn it for years. My current health proves it's harmless, doesn't it?"

"I think you're overthinking this," Molly interjected hastily. "It's a perfectly normal emerald pendant. Edwin's just become attached to it."

Joe raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"

Clearly, Joe and Molly knew it was a negative item. Despite this, Edwin continued to wear it. Something was amiss.

"I'll keep it for now. Let's tour your study," Joe declared, pocketing the pendant, ignoring Edwin and Molly's distress. He took Skylar's hand and ascended the stairs.

"Joe, this is my favorite emerald pendant! I can't give it to you! If you wanted something else, I would have given it, but not this!" Edwin protested vehemently, following them.

"Yes, I have several nice antiques," Molly added frantically. "You can choose a gift if you like."

Joe ignored them. As they climbed the stairs, he whispered to Skylar, "Tell me immediately if you sense anything amiss. Leave the rest to me. Don't pay them any attention."

Skylar glanced back at Edwin and Molly; their panic was evident. A sudden premonition clouded her; Joe's future seemed precarious with a father like Edwin, so oblivious to what was best for him. A heavy weight settled on her shoulders; a sense of foreboding hung in the air.