Skylar quickly answered the call, “Hello, Natalie?”
“Skylar!” Natalie’s voice was upbeat but filled with urgency. “I need your help with something. A client just called, and there’s an antique piece they want appraised. Can you come by later today?”
Skylar glanced at Joe, who was focused on driving, then back at the screen. “Sure, but I’m in the car right now, heading to Nova Avenue. Can I swing by afterward?”
“Great! I’ll send you the details. It’s just a small request, but the piece is valuable, so it’ll be worth your time.”
“Got it,” Skylar replied, feeling the pressure of her already busy schedule. She wasn’t surprised by the sudden request, as her expertise was becoming well-known. “I’ll text you when I’m on my way.”
As she hung up, Joe glanced at her briefly before refocusing on the road. “Something important?”
Skylar nodded. “Just a client. I’ll be busy for a while.”
“Good,” Joe said without elaboration. His tone seemed almost approving, but Skylar wasn’t sure if she was imagining it. They both fell into a comfortable silence as he drove toward Nova Avenue.
After a few minutes, Joe spoke again, his voice softer this time. “Skylar, about what happened last night… I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. I’m… not great at handling things like that.”
Skylar blinked, surprised by his words. She hadn’t expected him to bring it up again. “It’s okay. You didn’t do it on purpose,” she reassured him. “I understand.”
Joe nodded but didn’t say anything further. They both continued their drive, the tension between them easing as the minutes passed.
When they reached Nova Avenue, Joe pulled up to the side of the road. Skylar glanced over at him. “Thanks for the ride, Mr. Martin. I’ll get out here.”
“Stay safe,” he replied, his voice quiet but genuine. Skylar didn’t expect the subtle concern in his words, but she appreciated it nonetheless.
She stepped out of the car, and as she waved goodbye to Joe, her phone buzzed again. It was a message from Daniel about the restoration work. She quickly responded, then turned toward the antique street, her mind already shifting to the tasks ahead.
But as she walked toward the antique shop, she couldn’t shake the strange feeling that lingered after the exchange with Joe.
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