Chapter 99

Joe, in his swimming trunks, found a spot, sat down, and leaned against the side of the hot spring. The setting was serene: birds sang, flowers perfumed the air, and the water's comfortable temperature was deeply relaxing.

Skylar arrived to find Joe resting with his eyes closed. The water level reached just below his chest; the moonlight glinted on the ripples, making his chest muscles appear more defined and attractive. She knew he was handsome, but his physique surprised her. After a quick glance, she looked away. Joe opened his eyes as she entered the pool. He regarded her with sparkling, inscrutable eyes.

She wore a red bikini that flattered her fair skin, accentuating her slim waist and slender legs. Her figure was curvy and alluring. He was momentarily stunned, his heart pounding, wondering if she intended to seduce him. He recognized his own overwhelmingly masculine reaction.

Skylar, oblivious to Joe's internal turmoil, settled comfortably into the water. The hot spring's temperature was perfect. She found a spot, sat down, and then noticed Joe staring at her.

"Come over and sit here," he said, his gaze intense.

Startled, Skylar hesitated. Joe, seeing her reluctance, explained, "We promised Grandma we'd act like a loving couple. We need a photo to send her."

The mention of Gloria brought him back to his senses. He remembered that Gloria had chosen Skylar's bikini to entice him. He was a man, after all, and his reaction to Skylar's attractiveness was perfectly natural.

Skylar grinned. "Okay." She stood and walked to him.

Under the beautiful moonlight, the atmosphere subtly shifted. As Skylar approached slowly, the sound of rippling water accompanied the darkening of Joe's eyes. She was his ideal type—alluring, even with a simple smile. Her purity and seductiveness, combined with her outfit, made him momentarily fantasize about her reciprocating his attraction. He quickly dismissed the thought, feeling almost bewitched.

"Okay. Let's find a good angle for a photo. I didn't bring my phone, so use yours," Skylar said, sitting beside him.

Joe glanced at her; her ear-to-ear grin was captivating. His earlier thoughts resurfaced. Their proximity allowed him to see her chest as he looked away. His breath caught; he hummed in response.

Skylar's smile faltered as she observed Joe's near silence. Their conversation had been minimal since their arrival. She wondered if his grim expression stemmed from resentment at having to spend time with her for Gloria's sake. This thought prompted her to remain quiet, to avoid any misinterpretation.

Joe took his phone, found a suitable angle, and photographed them. They smiled for the camera. In the picture, their cheeks were flushed from the hot spring, and they looked convincingly like a loving couple.