Chapter 861

Joe’s smile faded, his tone neutral, upon hearing Skylar would return after dinner. “Alright,” he replied.

A few days later, during Skylar’s lunch break, Natalie invited her to the mall. Natalie was preparing for a three-month work trip to Fachington with Austin the following day. “I’ll bring you a gift,” she said, eyes bright with excitement. “Fachington is known for its romance; I’m really looking forward to this, even though it’s for work. It’s bound to be unforgettable.”

Skylar smiled. “Three months? Have you got everything ready?”

Natalie nodded, taking a sip of her smoothie. “Yes, I’m all set. Don’t worry, I can handle myself. If I need anything, I can buy it there. Mr. Powell has a mansion in Fachington; when he’s free from filming, I can visit and even make red wine! He’s quite the hidden big shot!”

Listening to Natalie’s frequent references to Austin, Skylar suspected budding feelings, but chose not to pry, sensing Natalie’s possible unawareness.

Suddenly, Natalie exclaimed, “Hey, is that Rowan and Vera?” She gestured for Skylar to look. Skylar saw them seated in a nearby café.

Noticing Skylar’s altered expression, Natalie whispered, “How are things with Joe? I’ve been too busy to ask lately.” Lately, rumors about Vera and Joe had circulated, quickly retracted, then resurfaced without concrete evidence—speculative reports from minor reporters. Natalie mused, Engaged? Nonsense! Joe and Skylar are married.

Skylar replied calmly, “The situation between Joe and I is…unchanged. Neither good nor bad.” She admitted she couldn’t define their relationship. A few days prior, they’d agreed to divorce proceedings, but recently, Joe seemed to have forgotten the plan, their relationship inexplicably closer.

Natalie nodded. “Neither good nor bad is…decent. You’re around Joe daily; I don’t believe someone as beautiful as you could fail to pique his interest. As for those online rumors, ignore them. Baseless fabrications.”

Their conversation continued without much attention to Vera and Rowan, until Skylar noticed Jenny in her peripheral vision. She wondered if Jenny was out of the hospital; Paul had shared her condition, and Joe knew about the secret Skylar had discovered. Skylar felt certain Jenny still harbored secrets.

“Curious about Rowan and Vera?” Natalie asked, noticing Skylar’s distracted gaze. “Should we say hi?”

Skylar checked the time. “I need to get back to work. Let’s go.” She added, “I’ll take you to the airport tomorrow.”

“No need,” Natalie replied. “The studio is sending a car. I’m going with Mr. Powell and Hank.”

“Alright.”

Vera had invited Rowan, initially believing he wanted to discuss Joe. However, after pleasantries, Jenny arrived. Rowan knew of her accident, but hadn't realized its severity. Her bandaged forehead and thin frame, along with her hesitant gait, revealed the seriousness of her injuries. He was shocked.

“It seems Jenny wants to speak with you alone,” Vera said, rising. “I’ll take a walk.” She showed no interest in their conversation.

Jenny’s eyes reddened slightly upon seeing Rowan.