Chapter 996

Paul arrived just in time, earning a smile from Skylar. He was surprised by her cheerful expression. “Please give the medicine to Mr. Martin now,” she instructed.

Paul immediately poured the liquid medicine and, handing it to Joe, said, “Mr. Martin, this one tastes pretty good. It has a fruity flavor.” He’d selected it from several options for its ease of consumption, even for children.

“Fruity?” Skylar queried, intrigued. A fruity-flavored medicine? She stared at Joe, her amusement growing until she burst into laughter. He was proving more challenging than a child, requiring coaxing and a medicine without a lingering aftertaste.

Joe's face darkened at her laughter, his gaze then turning cold toward Paul. The look made Paul's heart pound; he wondered if he'd done something wrong, though he doubted it.

Noticing Skylar's continued laughter, Joe's ears reddened. He snatched the medicine from Paul and downed it in one gulp, his eyes fixed on Skylar. He couldn't really taste anything, but an odd sensation in his mouth made him uneasy.

Skylar offered him a glass of water. “Drink some water; it’ll soothe your throat.”

Joe looked at the glass, then at Skylar, before slowly sipping the water. The warmth eased the unpleasant feeling.

“Well, Mr. and Mrs. Martin, I’ll be going now. Call if you need anything,” Paul said, making a hasty exit. With Skylar present, he felt no further worry. He closed the door before either could respond.

Skylar and Joe were alone. Joe, still feverish but unable to sleep, felt a yearning for Skylar's presence. He knew he’d sleep better holding her.

“It’s getting late. Let’s sleep,” Joe said.

Skylar glanced at the clock; it was indeed late. “Okay, I’ll shower first.”

“No need.” Joe seized her wrist, pulling her onto the bed.

She hadn't expected him to have the strength, given his illness. “I need to change into my pajamas,” Skylar protested helplessly. His clinginess, unusual for him, surprised her.

But Joe remained silent, his eyes closed, his body practically fused to hers. His high temperature quickly warmed her, causing her to perspire. She hadn't even changed, but he seemed unconcerned, falling asleep instantly.

He was sick, after all. And she was tired too, so she didn't argue. Within minutes, their steady breathing filled the room.

Later, Skylar awoke feeling groggy. Joe's body was cooler than before, so she drifted back to sleep.