“Did you cook these yourself, Grandma?” Skylar asked immediately, her concern evident.
Given Gloria’s health, she needed rest and to avoid exertion. It was better for her to take occasional walks and connect with nature.
Seeing Skylar’s concern, Gloria smiled warmly. “Yes, I’m feeling better today and wanted to make something special. Don’t worry, I’m much better these days. Having both of you here for my birthday makes me incredibly happy.”
“This is our birthday gift for you, Grandma,” Joe said, placing the necklace on the table. “Skylar picked it out.”
Initially, Gloria wasn’t interested. Joe often picked expensive gifts but didn’t put much thought into the design or what women liked. However, when she learned that Skylar had chosen it, Gloria’s eyes lit up. She couldn’t take her eyes off the necklace.
“It’s so pretty! This is the prettiest necklace I’ve ever received! Quick, help me put it on,” Gloria exclaimed.
“I’m glad you like it, Grandma,” Skylar said, smiling as she helped Gloria put the necklace on.
Gloria held it close, admiring herself in the mirror. “How beautiful. Skye, you have such good taste. It looks beautiful on its own, but even better on me.”
“I also bought you some clothes, Grandma. Once Edgar washes them, you can try them on to see if they fit,” Skylar said.
Gloria’s heart swelled with gratitude. “That’s so thoughtful of you, Skye. I haven’t been feeling well lately and haven’t had the energy to go shopping. I’m tired of my old clothes.”
“I’ll take you shopping once you’re feeling better,” Skylar offered, hoping to cheer her up.
“Alright. I really do love having you around,” Gloria said with a smile. “The food’s getting cold, and you must be hungry. Let’s dig in.”
Gloria sat down, looking content. The elderly often didn’t care for cakes, so there wasn’t one prepared for her birthday. She preferred quiet, intimate gatherings with her loved ones, and this was exactly what she got—a peaceful, heartwarming birthday celebration.
After the meal, Gloria was eager to try on the clothes Skylar had bought for her.
“Joe, look at these. Skye bought me such beautiful clothes. They make me look so elegant. I even look ten years younger in them!”
Joe’s eyes lit up as he took in Gloria’s appearance. She truly did look like her younger self, glowing with joy. His expression softened, warmth radiating from him as he nodded. “You really do have a good taste, Skylar,” he said, his voice tender.
Skylar blushed at the praise from both Gloria and Joe. She glanced at Joe, unsure of what to say. Instead, she focused on Gloria. “The designer of this brand is really talented.”
“It’s because you have a good eye,” Joe responded.
All these years, Joe had never seen Gloria so happy. It seemed that since Skylar had entered their lives, Gloria had shed some of her burdens. She was more carefree, her smile genuine and free of worries.
Unknowingly, a realization struck Joe. The more time he spent with Skylar, the more he saw her incredible qualities. But sadly, he couldn’t give her the love she deserved. If she didn’t need love, perhaps they could spend their lives together without it.
Later, Skylar and Gloria settled in to watch a variety show together. It was a love-themed program, and they seemed to enjoy it immensely. Edgar had prepared food and snacks, but it was mainly Skylar who ate—Gloria had little appetite after the meal and preferred watching the show to digesting the food.
Joe, who typically retreated to his upstairs study, surprisingly remained glued to the couch. He watched as Gloria and Skylar guessed the romantic entanglements of the participants.
When Skylar was with Gloria, she seemed so relaxed and happy, her laughter filling the room. She was far more casual and endearing now than when she was alone with Joe.
Joe narrowed his eyes, his demeanor restrained and aloof. He observed her, quietly contemplating.
Skylar inadvertently caught his gaze, her smile faltering for a moment.
Skip to content