Chapter 908

Skylar briefly studied the photograph before closing her private chat with Vera and checking Instagram. Rowan had posted a new update. The photo was taken at the same location as Vera's birthday party. She could faintly discern Joe's hand, recognizing it by his distinctive watch—a rare piece, unique to Jipsburg.

Rowan's caption read: "A very silly and adorable woman told me that even if I lost everything and wasn't a Jakeman anymore, she would still love me. Starting today, I will try being just Rowan Jakeman, not the Jakeman from the Jakeman family."

It was a clear declaration of love for Jenny and a message to the Jakeman family—Rowan was prepared to sacrifice everything for her. After leaving the Jakeman Residence, it appeared Joe and Rowan had gone directly to Vera's party.

Skylar rubbed her temples. She went downstairs for a glass of water before returning to bed, hoping for sleep. She had barely drifted off when she felt the bed shift beside her. Joe had climbed in, pulling her into his arms. He likely hadn't intended to wake her. Noticing her slight tension, and sensing the faint scent of alcohol on his breath, he murmured, "Did I wake you?"

"What time is it?" Skylar asked.

"About 3:00 AM," Joe replied.

Skylar sat up. "You go back to sleep. I went to bed early and can't get back to sleep. I'll go downstairs and read for a while."

Without waiting for a response, Skylar slipped out of bed. Joe, sensing something was amiss, followed her downstairs; he wasn't sleepy at all.

Skylar settled on the couch with a book. As she turned the pages, she heard footsteps. Looking up, she saw Joe descending the stairs.

"Why aren't you asleep?" she asked.

Joe approached her. "Is something on your mind?"

Skylar opened her mouth to speak, then changed her mind. She shook her head. "It's nothing. Everyone has restless nights sometimes. We still have a few hours until dawn; you should go back to sleep."

Joe studied her intently. "Are you sure it's nothing?"

He seemed intent on reading her expression, but Skylar lowered her head and returned to her book.

After drinking some water, Joe said, "Mr. Jakeman Senior has expelled Rowan."

Skylar looked up. "Is it a complete severance?"

"Not entirely, for now. However, Rowan's financial access is frozen, and he'll have to manage without family support. But Rowan is confident he can succeed independently."

Skylar nodded. "I saw his Instagram earlier. It's surprising how far he's willing to go for Jenny."

Joe's voice became serious. "That's not a good sign."

"Everyone is responsible for their choices. Time will tell," Skylar said calmly. Sometimes emotions were chaotic and unpredictable—just like her confused thoughts about the photo Vera had sent and Joe's ambiguous feelings toward Vera. It explained Vera's apparent confidence.

The next morning, at breakfast, Joe suggested they visit the hot spring resort. Skylar declined.

"I didn't sleep much last night and don't have the energy. Let's plan for another day."

Joe readily agreed. "Okay."