Chapter 988

Natalie declined. “Skylar’s busy today, and I don’t know when she’ll be free. There’s no need to trouble you, Mr. Powell.”

She sensed Austin had been acting strangely lately, though she couldn't pinpoint what felt amiss. His gaze, whenever it fell upon her, was intensely captivating, unexpectedly quickening her pulse.

“I see. Well, let’s return to the hotel then,” Austin said, his gaze lingering on her.

Natalie simply nodded.

After leaving the set, Austin noticed Natalie's subdued demeanor. “Are you feeling down?” he asked.

“Huh? No, not at all. I probably didn’t sleep well last night. I’ll nap when we get back to the hotel.”

She couldn't admit she felt he was looking at her with a potential romantic interest.

Austin said gently, “I see. We’re almost at the hotel.”

Natalie sighed inwardly. His gaze and voice could easily captivate anyone. She was grateful for her remaining rationality.

When Skylar arrived at Aiken’s villa, Simona was still asleep.

“Simona slept very well last night. She’s still resting, so she should be fine. I’m so glad you’re in Fachington. Otherwise, I wouldn’t know what to do,” Aiken said, his gratitude evident.

His sincerity was palpable; their family would remember Skylar's help.

“It’s good she slept soundly. Simona will need time to recover. You don’t need to be so formal. Simona’s like my little sister.”

Aiken smiled and nodded. “Okay. Since you’re here so early, have you had breakfast? I haven’t, so why don’t you join me?”

Skylar hadn’t felt hungry, but she hadn’t eaten breakfast at the hotel, and after encountering Vera, she’d forgotten all about it. Aiken’s mention of it reminded her she was, in fact, hungry.

Just as she was about to reply, Simona came downstairs. Seeing Skylar, she rushed over.

“Skylar!”

Simona knew Skylar wouldn't lie. Skylar had promised to stay, and she had kept her word. Skylar smiled. “How did you sleep last night?”

“I slept through the night, no dreams at all. If my hunger hadn’t woken me, I could probably have slept another two or three hours,” Simona said, her stomach rumbling.

Skylar laughed. “Perfect timing for breakfast.”

Her own stomach grumbled in agreement.

Chapter 988

It seemed those accustomed to breakfast couldn't tolerate skipping it.

Simona, clinging to Skylar’s arm, settled at the table with her. “What are we having today?” she asked Aiken.

Aiken, momentarily lost in thought, snapped back to reality. “Handmade pasta with tomato and egg sauce.”

Both siblings loved handmade pasta, especially with tomato and egg sauce.