“Skye’s just being polite. You need to work harder!” Gloria intervened, rescuing Skylar from her moment of embarrassment.
Joe casually walked over and sat right next to Skylar, his presence natural and unpretentious. He glanced at the TV, where a variety show was airing. The show featured men and women mingling, flirting over dinner. In Joe’s eyes, none of the male contestants could compare to him, and none of the women held a candle to Skylar.
Gloria observed the way Joe sat beside Skylar with ease, her gaze turning knowing. When had they become so close? She had seen through Joe’s earlier act, but now, there was something different about him. It was clear he enjoyed being in Skylar’s company.
At Joe’s age, it wasn’t uncommon for young men to think about women and begin seeking companionship. It seemed Joe had finally reached that point.
Skylar, who had been chatting casually with Gloria about the show, suddenly felt self-conscious now that Joe was sitting so close. She could feel the warmth of his presence next to her, making her aware of every small movement she made.
Gloria, noticing the time, nudged them gently. “It’s getting late. You two should head home. You’ve got an early appointment tomorrow. Don’t stay up too late tonight.”
“Alright,” both Skylar and Joe replied in unison.
As they stood up to leave, Gloria turned to Edgar with a mischievous glint in her eye. “Do you think I’ll have a great-grandchild by next year?”
Edgar, always composed, gave a thoughtful response. “I suppose so. It’s clear Mr. Martin has feelings for Mrs. Martin,” he said. Having watched Joe grow up, Edgar was keenly aware of his subtle signs of affection. Joe had never been one to speak unnecessarily, and the way his gaze had lingered on Skylar earlier, along with his teasing, spoke volumes.
However, Edgar wasn’t certain how Joe viewed his own emotions yet.
Gloria chuckled softly. “I agree. By the way, keep an eye on the Silver family. If they try anything to disrupt Joe and Skylar’s relationship, let me know.”
It wasn’t something Gloria had expected to worry about at her age, but she cared deeply about Joe and Skylar’s future.
“Don’t worry, Mrs. Martin Senior. I believe Mr. Martin has already dealt with it. I’ve met Ms. Silver before. She’s quite smart and works as a TV host. She should have a sharper wit, but her actions have been disappointing,” Edgar said thoughtfully.
Although rumors had circulated before, Edgar had not given them much attention. The Martin family was often the target of such gossip, but few people were bold enough to take direct action.
“I’ll never forgive anyone who tries to ruin Joe and Skylar’s relationship,” Gloria muttered, her resolve firm.
On their way home, Skylar and Joe drove back together. Joe drove her car while a driver took his own car back for him.
Exhausted from the day’s events, Skylar dozed off shortly after exchanging a few quiet words with Joe. She hadn’t meant to fall asleep, but the fatigue weighed on her.
Joe, unaware that Skylar had drifted off, continued talking. He even suggested that she consider their marriage seriously. He hinted that if they found each other suitable, they could continue being together.
But when he received no response, Joe turned his head and realized Skylar had fallen asleep. A contented smile touched his lips as he watched her rest so peacefully.
A thought suddenly flashed in his mind. Maybe this was better—no need for passionate love. Skylar had already experienced the highs and lows of young love, only to end in heartbreak. Perhaps their marriage, grounded in stability and mutual respect, didn’t need the distractions of intense emotions. It could last and be strong without all that.
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