Chapter 984

Aiken stood by the door, listening to the faint sounds from within. He couldn't discern Skylar and Simona's conversation, but sensed Simona's mood lightening. Their conversation was calm, his own tense expression softening. It had been a long time since he'd felt such trust, believing no one could evoke this feeling—until Skylar. With Simona now with Skylar, an immense relief washed over him.

He pulled out a cigarette, hesitated, then took the pack upstairs to the balcony. Under the evening breeze, he lit it. The thought that Skylar had come alone, Joe absent, crossed his mind. Could there be trouble in their relationship? The last time Skylar needed help, Joe's anxiety had been palpable; his concern seemingly genuine, but now... he wasn't so sure.

His phone rang. Recognizing the caller ID, he raised an eyebrow, maintaining his composure. "Mr. Martin," he answered.

"Is Skylar there with you?" Joe asked directly.

Aiken paused, looking at the lighter. "Yes, my sister had some issues, so I asked Ms. Sullivan to come over."

"Send me the address. I'll come get her," Joe replied.

Aiken complied. The call ended with an unspoken tension, a subtle undercurrent only they could sense—a silent competition in the shadows.

After hanging up, Aiken glanced at the night sky. It was midnight, and Joe was still en route. He cared for Skylar, that was clear, but could Joe truly discern his priorities amidst his internal conflict?

He stubbed out his cigarette and went downstairs. Skylar and Simona's voices were still audible; Simona's noticeably lighter than before, the earlier tension seemingly dissipated. Laughter even punctuated their conversation.

Skylar's laughter was soft, yet she possessed a strong character and ambition. Each encounter left Aiken feeling inadequate, self-critical. Despite this, less noble thoughts occasionally intruded.

Lost in thought, Skylar opened the door. He started to speak, but she shook her head, signaling him to wait. Downstairs, on the couch, she finally spoke. "Simona's tired and should sleep. She wants to see me tomorrow, and I promised."

"Are there any extra rooms? If not, I'll come early tomorrow."

Simona's emotional instability made Skylar hesitant to leave her alone. Aiken felt relief at Skylar's decision, but remembered Joe's call. Suppressing his excitement, he said, "Mr. Martin just called. He's on his way to pick you up."

Skylar looked surprised. "He called you?"

She checked her phone, finding several missed calls from Joe; her phone had been silent.

Aiken nodded.

"I'll call him back," Skylar said, noting the time—almost 1:00 AM.

She dialed Joe. He answered immediately.

"Sorry, I was with Simona, my phone was silent. I'm staying here tonight. Are you on your way? It's too late. Go back to the hotel and rest," Skylar said.