Chapter 911

Without Joe, Vera’s face was devoid of smiles. Spotting Skylar, she smirked. “Joe attended my birthday party yesterday. You must have seen the photos, right? We’ve had our disagreements, but we still care for each other. I won’t say anything harsh, but I hope you understand where you stand. And, by the way, did you use underhanded methods to marry Joe—besides his grandmother’s influence?”

Skylar, drying her hands, looked at Vera impassively. “There’s no need for hypocrisy. Just because you have a guilty conscience doesn’t mean everyone else does. You should reflect on yourself.” She then left the restroom.

Vera watched her go, her teeth clenched. Skylar’s audacity—no one had ever dared to speak to Vera like that. She was always treated like royalty. Skylar must be poisoning Joe’s mind.

After leaving the restaurant, Vera and Justin planned to descend the hill. However, Skylar, wanting to enjoy the view, decided to browse a nearby convenience store instead. Without waiting for Joe, she went straight there.

The hilltop store was filled with souvenirs and postcards. Skylar selected a few trinkets and bought a smoothie. She was about to sit and enjoy the view when someone sat beside her: Joe.

“Aren’t you going down the hill with them?” Skylar asked.

Joe’s expression was cold. “Do you know who I am?”

His tone startled her. “You… You are Joe Martin.”

He stared at her, his face growing sterner. “I’m your husband.”

Confused, Skylar asked, “Why did you leave on your own? Why didn’t you wait for me?”

“I thought you wanted to go down the hill with Vera and Justin. I didn’t want to force you to join me,” she replied, assuming he’d prefer time with Vera.

Vera’s birthday photo had shaken her. She’d accepted their loveless marriage, but if real feelings were involved, she wouldn’t be a third wheel or a pawn. She refused to be used.

Joe’s face remained stern. “When did I say I wanted to go with them?”

Skylar was speechless; he hadn’t.

They fell silent, Skylar sipping her smoothie. Eventually, they left together, a quiet understanding passing between them as they strolled down the hill.

Once at the bottom, Vera and Justin got into the car. Justin glanced at Vera. “Shall I take you home?”

Vera, silent and grim, replied, “I’m not going home. Take me somewhere for a drink.”

“Upset?” Justin asked, noticing her mood. “I don’t know Joe well, but I’ve heard he’s enigmatic. He hasn’t had many women, but I think you’ve met your match. His feelings for Skylar aren’t a fling. It’s clear she holds a real place in his heart.”