Chapter 885

“I’ve come to visit a friend,” Skylar replied coolly.

“Me too,” Aiken added.

Vera’s eyes darted between them. What a coincidence. Here to see friends? While walking over, she noticed Aiken staring intently at Skylar; it didn't seem innocent.

“Ms. Sullivan, would you be able to spare half an hour for coffee?”

Skylar knew Vera wouldn’t give up easily. She’d tried repeatedly to speak with her alone; failure this time would only spur another attempt. Considering this, she agreed, “Alright.”

Half an hour later, they sat in a nearly empty café across from the hospital. Skylar ordered water; Vera, coffee. Sipping her drink, Vera glanced up at Skylar.

She had to admit Skylar was remarkably composed, despite her humble village upbringing. Vera doubted Skylar wasn't curious about these repeated meetings. She couldn't understand why Joe had married her; they didn't seem particularly in love.

“Get to the point, Ms. Ruell,” Skylar said, glancing at the clock before meeting Vera’s gaze.

Vera smiled. “I know you and Joe are married.”

Skylar’s eyes flashed. “So?”

“I want to know how you met Joe. My understanding is you hadn't seen much of each other. Was it…a hasty marriage?” Vera scrutinized Skylar’s reaction. She wanted to know why Joe would agree to such a hasty union. What about Skylar prompted such an impulsive decision? Was it her antique restoration skills? Many in Jipsburg possessed similar abilities; that couldn't be the reason. Vera's research revealed Skylar had a former boyfriend, now gone from Jipsburg. Skylar could abandon her high-school sweetheart for Joe. How heartless. She was truly a scheming woman.

Her eyes darkening, Skylar replied with a twisted smile, “Why should I tell you? This is private. If you’re curious about Joe and me, ask him.”

Skylar couldn’t decipher Vera. She could have spoken to Joe; why insist on talking to Skylar?

Vera’s expression changed. “I think you harbor strong animosity. This is just a casual conversation.” She was extremely alert. The marriage must have been a product of Skylar’s schemes, exactly as Vera suspected.

Skylar sipped her water, then grinned mockingly. “I didn’t think we were close enough for casual chats. I have other things to do. I’ll be leaving now.”

“Wait! Is your animosity because you’re afraid Joe will divorce you for me? After imposing those two conditions, you’ve made it clear feelings don’t matter to you. Money does.” Vera scanned Skylar judgmentally. The more she spoke, the more confident she felt.

Skylar glared coldly. “Are you done?”

“No. Let’s be honest. Joe and I have known each other for years. We planned to marry; it would greatly benefit our families. I’ve been capricious lately, ignoring his opinions in my pursuit of freedom, leaving him to face the world alone. He waited for me for years. You know why you married him. Therefore, I want you to initiate a divorce. Ask me for anything; I’ll agree.” Vera revealed her plans.