Chapter 882

Jenny’s eyes widened. She couldn't believe Rowan was berating her because of Skylar. All sense of logic abandoned her.

"How dare you yell at me about Skylar?" she exclaimed angrily. "Rowan, would you swear under oath that you harbor no romantic interest in Skylar? You know she's Joe's wife; you lack the courage to openly pursue your feelings, don't you?"

That was the truth, or so it seemed. Skylar was a manipulative woman, flirting with men to her advantage. Otherwise, Joe wouldn't have investigated Jenny, and Jenny wouldn't have lost all hope with Joe.

Rowan was stunned. Jenny seemed like a stranger. He had perceived her as a delicate woman needing protection. Her cruel words and jealous accusations were a stark contrast to that perception. He didn't know her at all.

He pushed her away. "I don't think I know you well enough," he said. "Go see the doctor yourself. Let's both calm down."

This terrified Jenny. She instantly calmed down, grabbing his arm to prevent him from leaving.

"Rowan, I'm sorry," she said, tears welling in her eyes. "I was worried about you. I didn't mean to suggest you were having an affair with Skylar. I wasn't thinking clearly."

Rowan gave her a long, searching look. She remained a stranger to him. He hadn't taken the time to consider why Jenny had suddenly changed her mind and sought him out. She claimed to have discovered her affection for him after enduring hardships. Was that the truth?

Jenny saw the displeasure and confusion linger in his eyes. Panic welled inside her. She reminded herself to remain calm, to avoid impulsive actions.

At 9:00 p.m., Skylar emerged from the shower. Joe had bathed in the guest bathroom. He found her as he exited, his hair still damp.

"There's something I want to talk about," he said, gesturing for her to get into bed.

"Let me change into my pajamas first," she replied, nodding.

She quickly changed in the dressing room. Once in bed, Joe enveloped her in a hug. Skylar froze, sensing a shift in his mood. He rested his forehead on her shoulder, like a wounded animal.

"What's going on?" she asked.

Joe remained silent, clinging to her.

After ten minutes, he explained, "Today is the anniversary of my mother's death."

Her anniversary? Skylar's heart sank. She turned and hugged him tightly. They held each other close.

She sensed Joe's profound sadness. Talia had committed suicide by jumping from a building. Gloria had told Skylar that her death would leave an everlasting wound on Joe's heart.

Joe had been a child then, witnessing his mother's suicide and subsequently, his father's numerous casual affairs. His idyllic family of three shattered in an instant. He had to rely solely on himself; otherwise, his relatives would have descended upon him like vultures, stripping him of everything.