Chapter 840

Natalie linked arms with Skylar and walked away, oblivious to Jeremy's lingering gaze. He remained fixated on her departure, unaware when Helena approached.

Helena knew Jeremy, Joe, and Skylar. Jeremy's intense stare unnerved her; it felt as though he saw no one else. Her instincts flagged Natalie as a threat. "Mr. Hughes," she said, "let's continue shopping."

Jeremy shook himself from his reverie, lowering his gaze to conceal his red-rimmed eyes. "That's enough shopping," he announced. "Let's go." Turning to Joe, he added, "I'll take my leave." Joe nodded, giving Helena a thoughtful glance before departing.

Natalie and Skylar entered a men's clothing store. "I can't afford a luxury suit for Mr. Powell," Natalie explained, "but I can manage a tie. Help me pick one; you have great taste." Austin's birthday was approaching, and everyone at the company was secretly preparing gifts. Natalie had intended to photograph potential ties and send them to Skylar, but this chance encounter was even better.

Skylar, relieved that Natalie seemed unconcerned about Jeremy's new girlfriend, focused on tie selection. "How about this one?" she asked.

"It's nice, but not really Mr. Powell's style," Natalie suggested. "It suits Mr. Martin, though. Why not buy one for him?"

Skylar, remembering Joe's recent generosity, saw the tie as a suitable token of appreciation. "I'll take this one," she declared, handing it to the salesperson. She then resumed assisting Natalie.

Natalie seemed undecided, instead chatting with Skylar. "I'm happy for Jeremy. I've moved on. Looking back, we weren't suited. I've heard about Helena; she's professional and hardworking, despite a challenging career. She sounds wonderful."

Skylar believed Natalie had genuinely grown. Exposure to new experiences since meeting Austin had broadened her perspective. Natalie nodded. "At first, I couldn't let go, but since the divorce, I've opened myself to possibilities. Skylar, love isn't everything. No matter what happens, you'll always be my best friend! Mr. Powell is a great boss, Hank's a great manager, and my parents have stopped worrying; they even follow Mr. Powell's career. Everything's going well."

Jeremy, too, was moving forward. Everyone was happy and secure, pursuing their own goals.

The women browsed further, ultimately selecting a woolen scarf for Natalie's gift. It was practical for travel and winter.

Later, Joe stood outside the mall, smoking. He felt a pang of sadness concerning his relationship with Skylar, quickly finishing four cigarettes.

Skylar emerged, noticing Joe's somber mood. "Finished shopping?" he asked.

"Yes, Natalie ran into a colleague. Let's go home," she replied, handing him a bag. "It's a tie. See if you like it; I'll exchange it if not."

Surprise, then mirth, lit Joe's eyes. "I'll take a look." The tie was beautifully packaged.