Chapter 1319
Someone greeted warmly, “Ms, Sullivan! You’re here too? If I’d known, I would’ve picked you up,
and we could come together.”
“The last time Ms. Sullivan restored that antique painting for me, she did such a flawless job that
even my friend was amazed. No one could even tell it had been restored.
“Speaking of which, my friend also has a painting that needs restoration. She’s been hoping to see
if you’d have the time. We heard you were in Jipsburg, but it’s great to see you back so soon.”
“If Ms. Sullivan wasn’t invited, that would be absurd! I could understand if I wasn’t, but there’s no
way she wouldn’t be included,” someone else chimed in.
A cluster of influential figures, well–regarded in the Clusian community, gathered around Skylar,
genuinely pleased to see her. Their warm words flowed effortlessly as they caught up with her.
Skylar was equally pleased to see familiar faces. “I’ve had some personal matters to take care of
recently. But as soon as I’m available, I’ll reach out to you first, Mr. Wolfe.”
She added, “Today’s situation is a misunderstanding. I won’t hold it against Ms. Reese.”
Her poised response and gracious response smoothed over the earlier tension.
Rosa’s face flushed, a mix of embarrassment and frustration. The thought of today’s humiliation
spreading among Murida’s elite was mortifying. She had no idea Skylar knew so many people
here in Murida.
Though Rosa had investigated Skylar’s background and knew she possessed real skill, it only
fueled her envy. Skylar wasn’t just a pretty face; she had undeniable talent. And to make matters worse, her beauty was enchanting, the kind that seemed almost ethereal. Men were effortlessly
drawn to her.
As the crowd around Skylar grew, chatting and catching up, Joe watched the entire scene
intently. His gaze remained fixed on Skylar, indifferent to how conspicuous he appeared.
Meanwhile, Rosa’s face flushed red with embarrassment. Thankfully, most people had stopped
paying her any attention. With her eyes reddening, she looked at Joe and softly said, “Ned.”
Her voice was filled with resentment.
Joe looked away from Skylar and said to Rosa, “Rosa, go apologize to Skylar.”
Rosa’s eyes widened in disbelief at his words, tears brimming as she protested, “You want me to
apologize to her? Ned, do you even know what you’re saying?
“She came here with ulterior motives, trying to steal my fiancé! Isn’t it reasonable for me to assume she wouldn’t have an invitation? How could I just stand by and watch a woman like her
Chapie: 1410
get close to you?
“You want me to apologize? No, she’s the one who should be apologizing–to me. She’s the one disrupting our lives, stirring up trouble. She should stay away if she knows what’s good for her.”
For the first time, Rosa’s heart burned with pure hatred, and Skylar was its sole target. Joe’s expression darkened,
Rosa glanced at Skylar, who was basking in attention and surrounded by admirers, Jealousy gnawed at her, tearing at whatever composure she had left.
“I can’t stay here any longer,” she said abruptly, her voice cracking. “I’m leaving.”
With that, Rosa hurried away, unable to bear the pitiful and judgmental stares from those around
her.
Joe’s gaze followed her departure, his brow furrowing slightly. He exchanged a look with his assistant, Calvin Valdez, who immediately moved to follow Rosa.
Once both Rosa and Calvin had exited, Joe’s eyes returned to Skylar, his expression now unguarded.
