Joe found himself unexpectedly enjoying the moment. For the first time, he slept soundly through the night, waking up next to someone who made him feel at ease. He couldn’t help but think that if Skylar could accept a simple life, without the idealized notion of romance, he could truly see her as his wife.
When Skylar woke up, she joined Gloria for breakfast. As they chatted, she suddenly remembered her promise to visit Caleb at the hospital. She called him to apologize for not being able to make it that day, assuring him that she would visit the next day. Caleb sounded disappointed, and Skylar felt guilty. She promised herself she’d make it up to him with a gift when she visited.
After hanging up, she quickly made her way to Janine’s house. On the way there, she stopped by the supermarket to pick up a few things. When she arrived, she found Janine waiting for her while Harvey was busy studying.
As Skylar walked into the house, Janine immediately spoke up. “You bought too many clothes for Harvey yesterday. He’s still growing, and those clothes might not fit him for long. Plus, I saw the price tag. They’re too expensive. You’ve just started working—spend that money on things you like.”
Harvey, who had been lectured all morning, now regretted mentioning the clothes to Janine. “Mom, I’ve made quite a bit of money now. A few clothes won’t hurt. Besides, Harvey looks handsome in them. So, it’s worth the money,” Skylar said, trying to reassure Janine.
Janine still looked worried. “I’m just concerned you’re not treating yourself well.”
Skylar smiled softly. She knew Janine understood her better than anyone. She had always carried burdens quietly, never complaining, because she didn’t want her family to worry. This money wasn’t easy for her to earn.
“Skye, let’s return them,” Harvey said, feeling he didn’t need to dress well.
Skylar looked at him and shook her head. “Since we’ve already bought them, just wear them.” Then she turned to Janine and added, “Mom, I didn’t mistreat myself. Look at what I bought.”
Janine’s face softened. “Well, if you insist.” Then she smiled and added, “I’ll cook some of my signature dishes for the both of you. Skye, take some with you when you visit Charles. He’s been so busy lately. He even complained about missing home-cooked meals.”
“Okay, Mom,” Skylar replied, grateful for her mother’s care.
If it weren’t for Harvey needing to catch up on homework, Skylar would have brought him along for the visit. Charles had recently joined a new film crew and landed the role of the male fourth lead. It was his first major role, and he worked tirelessly. Skylar knew that with his talent, he might become the leading man one day—his acting skills were far superior to Samuel’s in her eyes.
Skylar had also bought some designer clothes and shoes for Charles, planning to surprise him during the visit.
After lunch, Skylar packed Janine’s lunch into a box and made her way to Charles’ film crew. The shoot location today was Willowbrook Manor, which Skylar was familiar with. It took her about 50 minutes to get there. When she arrived, she called Charles, who asked her to wait for ten minutes. He had just finished filming his scenes for the day and would be free to stroll with her.
While waiting, one of the security guards approached her. He looked at her for a moment, then asked, “Are you Ms. Sullivan?”
“Yes, I am,” Skylar replied.
The security guard smiled. “I thought I recognized you. Are you here to visit Mr. Querbach? He mentioned that you’re welcome to come by anytime. Feel free to drive right in.”
Skylar was taken aback by the guard’s recognition of her, but she nodded gratefully and drove toward the mansion. She felt a small thrill as she entered—this visit was going to be special.
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