Chapter 834

Skylar couldn't explain her unease as they entered Edwin's study. The large room showed little sign of use, save for a glass cupboard displaying several valuable-looking antiques. Skylar followed Joe, examining each piece meticulously.

"I can give you anything from this collection," Edwin said hastily, catching up with them, "but I can't part with the emerald pendant you're holding."

Joe ignored him, looking at Skylar. She inspected the antiques thoroughly, then shook her head. Nothing seemed amiss. She scanned the room; none of the decorative items appeared negative.

"None of these interest me," Joe announced. "I'll be taking the pendant." He took Skylar's hand and left, ignoring Edwin's protests.

Edwin's fury simmered. Joe had clearly come to antagonize him, knowing how much he valued the pendant.

"No way," Edwin refused. "I've worn it for years. I'll feel lost without it."

Joe's actions felt like robbery. The pendant's negative properties were irrelevant; its importance lay in its ability to help him achieve his goals and ensure his safety.

Joe looked down at Edwin disdainfully. Edwin's heart pounded.

"I don't care about your aims," Joe commanded coldly. "Stop whatever you're doing, immediately."

Edwin was speechless.

Molly interjected stiffly, "It isn't 'crap'! It's a lucky talisman your father wore. Don't condemn it because others suffered. You're acting like a robber!"

"You know the consequences of wearing the pendant," Skylar said, meeting Molly's gaze.

Molly avoided Skylar's eyes, a telltale sign of concealment. "What consequences? It's just a pendant! I'm past superstitions, and so should you."

"Find another similar object, and you'll suffer Lester's fate," Joe threatened. Threats proved more effective than advice.

Molly fell silent, affronted. Edwin's eyes widened. The audacity! His own son, threatening him! The memory of Lester Ross's fate – a fate worse than death – chilled him. Lester, his closest friend, his brother in all but blood… Joe's cruelty was unforgivable. And to use Lester as a threat!

Minutes after Joe and Skylar left, Edwin's rage exploded. He seized a vase and hurled it at the door, shattering it. The terrified household staff remained frozen in place.