Chapter 847

The others beside her remained silent, their displeasure evident. After all, she was Denton's favorite granddaughter; they dared not criticize her. They had no idea of Skylar's capabilities. Their problem had baffled many renowned divination masters, leaving them to rely on chance. Alexander, however, was a promising asset; it was unlikely he would cause trouble.

"Fine," Denton sighed, his regret deepening by the minute. "Contact him. He warned me about the negative items, and I didn't believe him. We'll see his response."

Vera nodded. "Alright, Grandpa. Don't worry."

Vera left to make the call. Denton had told Alexander they would pay twenty million, but Vera's apology to Skylar was still pending.

Alexander's immediate response surprised Denton. "The deal is off unless both conditions are met. Reconsider," Alexander insisted.

Denton frowned after hanging up, taken aback by Alexander's firm stance.

After leaving Denton's room, Vera returned to her own, got into bed, and called Joe. It was nearly the end of his workday, so he shouldn't have been busy.

After a few rings, Joe answered, "What's up?"

Vera's heart sank at his cold tone. She bit her lip. "Joe, did you tell Grandpa about the negative items in my collection when you visited him?"

"Yeah," Joe replied monotonously.

Vera inhaled deeply, feeling a growing distance between them. "Many things have been happening to my family. Grandpa didn't believe a negative item was the cause at first, but Hector had an accident today. We think the items might be responsible. Joe, do you know how to get rid of them?"

Joe's response was more expansive than usual, intrigued by her words. "I do, but have you considered what you'll need to sacrifice?"

Sacrifice?

Vera froze. Did this mean Joe wanted to sleep with her? Were they about to take that final step? She had initially hoped to grow closer to him, to only sleep together once he fell for her.

She hadn't anticipated this predicament for the Ruells. It could have all been avoided if she hadn't purchased those antiques at auction. But it had happened. She couldn't afford to continue playing a waiting game. Refusal would only push Joe further away.

Vera inhaled deeply. "I've made my decision."

Joe hummed. "Skylar is the only one who can help. She listed two conditions: twenty million and an apology."

"What?" Vera exclaimed, incredulous. She realized her lack of composure, but this was entirely unexpected and difficult to accept.