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Grayson said, “By the way, that boyfriend of yours from the countryside–after tonight, you need to cut ties tomorrow. Our family can’t afford this
embarrassment, got it?”
Annie’s voice was heavy as she replied, “Alright.”
Annie decided to give it one last try.
If all else failed, the Silver family’s reputation could be sacrificed at this point. Steven was her final option.
After leaving the restaurant, Skylar went to meet Natalie.
Today, Austin was shooting a film scene at their college. While Austin was on
break, Natalie took half an hour off and walked around the familiar campus with Skylar.
Despite leaving the campus just over a year ago, it felt as if they had grown somewhat unfamiliar with the place. It felt like many years had passed.
“You have to come clean with me. What’s going on between you and Joe? When did you end up with him?” Natalie squinted at Skylar.
There was a definite sense that Natalie would not let Skylar off if she didn’t explain properly today.
Skylar briefly recounted how Gloria arranged her marriage to Joe. Then, she summarized the current state of their life, where she and Joe were essentially
cohabiting.
“So, you two had a flash marriage?” Natalie widened her eyes.
Skylar nodded. “Yes, we had a flash marriage. So far, I don’t see any downsides.
“Do you love Joe?” Natalie asked.
As soon as Natalie asked, she regretted it. After all, how could a flash marriage involve love?
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Moreover, Skylar had just broken up with Christopher.
Skylar hesitated before replying, “We agreed that love wasn’t part of the deal. We’re just cohabitating. Honestly, it’s been good. Grandma Gloria has been kind to me, and I don’t have any expectations of Joe, so there’s no sense of
loss.”
“Then…” Natalie furrowed her brow. She felt Skylar was being unfairly treated.
But then again, she realized love might not be that important.
After all, Natalie loved Jeremy so deeply that it took a toll on her physically and emotionally. But in the end, they had to get divorced.
“How does Joe treat you?” Natalie asked.
Skylar smiled and said, “He’s good to me. We get along well.”
Of course, Skylar didn’t mention Joe’s unknown quirks. It wasn’t important.
He had unpredictable tantrums and was a bit too unrestrained in bed.
“I’ve seen Joe a few times. I always feel he’s not easy to get along with. How about you two…” Natalie suddenly smirked.
She glanced around to check if there weren’t many people before asking, “Have you slept together?”
Skylar’s mouth twitched. She couldn’t help but blush slightly. She said, “We’ve married. It’s natural for such things to happen.”
Natalie widened her eyes. “You’re so bold! You dare sleep with him? I’ve heard that many socialities in Jipsburg want to sleep with him, but he rejects them outright. For a while, some even said he might have those issues. Seeing you like this… is he capable?”
Natalie was born with a love for gossip. She couldn’t hold back her curiosity. She was genuinely too curious.
People as curious as hep could form a long line in Jipsburg City. Being at the heart of this gossip, she had to ask when she saw one of the involved parties.
Skylar chuckled wryly. “That’s just others misunderstanding him.”
If Joe had any issues, those spreading the rumors would probably be worse
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Natalie exclaimed, “Whoa…”
She couldn’t continue her questions. However, she kept winking at Skylar.
“Since you managed to marry Joe, I’ll forgive you. I’ve been on edge since last night. I worried that Joe might use his power to bully you into being his mistress or something. After all, with your looks, it’s hard for any man to resist.”
Upon hearing Natalie’s words, Skylar chuckled. “You see me through rose- colored glasses. I’m not some rare beauty.”
Natalie raised an eyebrow. “Skye, are you kidding me? If you’re not a stunning beauty, then who is? In my eyes, even those glamorous movie stars can’t compare to you. Back in the college, you were the only one who truly deserved the title of campus belle.”
After strolling around for a while, Natalie checked the time. Then, she said, “I have to get back. Let’s hang out again when I have a day off.”
ย
“Nath, take care of yourself,” Skylar whispered and hugged Natalie.
Natalie seemed her usual self, but Skylar knew she didn’t like to show her
vulnerabilities.
They were alike in this way. They didn’t like to show their weaknesses. They preferred to deal with everything quietly.
Upon hearing Skylar’s words, Natalie’s eyes reddened for a moment. Her voice choked up as she said, “I will.”
She would take good care of herself. The mistake wasn’t hers, so there was no need to punish herself for someone else’s fault. But the pain in her heart remained raw and hadn’t eased yet, and she didn’t know when it would.
Maybe, with time, it would slowly get better.
Skylar had just left the college when Joe called her. He asked if Skylar was free to attend a charity gala with him that evening.
She had planned to visit Charles on set later, but after checking the time, she
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realized she wouldn’t be able to make it in time.
“Sorry, I can’t make it tonight,” she declined.
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Joe’s tone remained indifferent, as if it didn’t matter much to him. “Alright. If the charity gala runs late, I’ll just stay upstairs at the hotel and rest. Don’t wait up for me.”
“Okay,” Skylar replied.
After hanging up, Joe’s expression turned cold. Paul happened to be nearby. He noticed Joe’s displeasure and kept silent.
“Get everything ready,” Joe ordered coldly.
“Sure,” Paul responded.
Before Paul quickly exited the room, he glanced at Joe’s phone. He wondered where Joe ranked in Skylar’s mind among the others.
During the weekend, Skylar was almost entirely dedicated to other people. Joe wondered if Skylar had ever considered spending one weekend with him.
The thought left him feeling restless.
Charles had been extremely busy lately. He shot one film right after another.
His hard work had landed him in many roles as the second male lead.
Occasionally, he even landed lead roles in web series.
His schedule was packed, and his earnings were increasing.
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Charles couldn’t let Skylar earn more than him.
Knowing Skylar would be visiting today, Charles went to the nearby mall yesterday and bought a luxury brand handbag. It was a favorite among many. female celebrities. The brand was popular.
In the past, he couldn’t afford to give it to Skylar while other women had it, but now he could make it happen. Even things other mothers had, he could now give to Janine too.
“See if you like it. Try it on,” Charles said eagerly, handing the bag to Skylar.
Though not particularly fond of luxury brands, Skylar admitted this bag was quite lovely. She said, “It’s lovely. Thank you, Charles.”
“That’s good to hear.” Charles grinned proudly. None of the female celebrities could match Skylar’s grace with the bag. She was extraordinarily beautiful.
“Oh? Charles, is this your girlfriend or a new talent signed to your company?”
Suddenly, Brigham Cohen, a middle–aged man, appeared. When he saw Skylar his eyes lit up. He was visibly captivated by Skylar.
Charles quickly clarified upon seeing Brigham. He explained, “Mr. Cohen, she’s my sister, not an actress. She happened to have time this weekend and came by.”
Brigham’s eyes brightened even more. “Your sister? Did she sign with any company? I think she’s perfect for the role of the enchanting second female lead in our upcoming drama. If she takes it on, she’ll definitely satisfy the audience.”
Upon closer inspection, Brigham realized Skylar was truly stunning. It was as if a character from a screenplay had stepped into reality.
Skylar couldn’t help but smile upon hearing Brigham suggest she play the second female lead. She had never considered entering the entertainment industry, and she had no interest in acting. Her passion lay solely in her work.
“Mr. Cohen, my sister has a job as an antique restorer. She won’t be entering the entertainment industry,” Charles quickly interjected.
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He couldn’t bear the thought of Skylar being in the entertainment industry. A woman as beautiful as Skylar would surely encounter all sorts of challenges there, and he worried about her being taken advantage of.
Besides, Skylar had a job that she loved.
Brigham looked slightly disappointed at Charles‘ response. But upon hearing Skylar’s profession as an antique restorer, his eyes lit up even more. He stared at Skylar as if she were some rare find. He wondered how a beautiful young woman like her ended up with such a dull and uninteresting job.
He hurriedly asked, “An antique restorer? Can you authenticate antique pieces?”
Skylar nodded and replied, “Yes, I can identify most of them. It’s part of my basic training.”
“Well, recently, I purchased a painting for my collection. A friend who visited my home later claimed it was a forgery. I spent 50 million dollars on that painting. If it’s fake, I’ve been duped.
“I believe it’s genuine, but I can’t shake my doubts. Is it worth keeping? Could you help me determine its authenticity? I’ll compensate you accordingly. Just name your price.” Brigham quickly laid out his request.
Knowing Charles, Brigham felt that Skylar could be trusted. He refused the allure of fame and focused on what he loved to do. It showed his calm and composed demeanor, which few young people possess nowadays.
Charles listened in astonishment. He wondered how the conversation had shifted to ask Skylar to help authenticate the painting. Moreover, Brigham rarely treated people so kindly.
“I can take a look first,” Skylar agreed.
She believed in doing what she could. After all, Brigham directed Charles‘ current film. If she had assisted Brigham, Charles would have another supporter in the entertainment industry, smoothing his acting career.
“Could you wait for 30 minutes? I’ll have the crew bring you dinner, and my family will send the painting over right away.” Brigham hurriedly asked.
He had wanted to visit Alexander to ask for help for some time. Alexander’s appraisals were the most trustworthy in Jipsburg City. But unfortunately, he couldn’t establish a connection with Alexander.
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He would likely need to make an appointment in advance if he went there. However, he didn’t have time recently.
“Okay,” Skylar replied and nodded.
While waiting for dinner and the painting, Brigham casually asked Skylar, ” There are numerous auction houses in Uipsburg City. Additionally, there are teams specializing in restoration. Which team do you work with?”
Before Skylar could answer, Charles proudly opened his mouth and said, “She’s in Mr. Gardner Senior’s team, and Skylar does all the repair work alone.”
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Charles‘ expression overflowed with pride as he uttered those words. Initially, he didn’t quite understand Skylar’s job when she mentioned working in Alexander’s team.
However, after looking into and confirming it with Steven, he realized just how impressive it was for Skylar to be part of Alexander’s team.
Charles couldn’t help but feel proud of having such a talented sister like Skylar.
“Mr. Gardner Senior’s team?” Brigham followed up after Charles.
It was only after the words left Charles‘ mouth that Brigham reacted. His eyes widened in surprise as he looked at Skylar. “There is only one Mr. Gardner
Senior in Jipsburg City. Are you on his team?”
People in Jipsburg City, especially collectors of various antiques and
paintings, knew Alexander’s reputation well. Moreover, Alexander was known to be peculiar. He didn’t accept anyone without genuine skills.
Being able to join Alexander’s team meant being among the top in the industry.
If one left Alexander’s team to work in various auction houses, their compensation would be several times higher than others. Those auction houses would definitely be competing to get them.
No wonder Skylar didn’t need to join the entertainment industry. This was a genuine skill.
Brigham felt incredibly lucky today and thought he was absolutely right when he chose Charles as the second male lead.
Skylar nodded with a smile. “Yes, I am currently in Mr. Gardner Senior’s team.”
“At such a young age too! You have such impressive talent. Today, I’m really fortunate. Charles, your sister is remarkable.” Brigham immediately turned to Charles.
Charles scratched his head. He was happier about Skylar being praised than himself. “Skylar has been smart since she was young.”
While they were talking, the crew members brought over dinner.
”
Brigham suddenly felt embarrassed by the crew’s dinner.
“Uh, how about I take you both to a restaurant?” he suggested.
Charles seldom saw Brigham this friendly and accommodating. He felt
somewhat uneasy and said, “No need. The boxed meals from the crew are fine.
“I haven’t tried the crew’s boxed meals yet; I’d like to,” Skylar chimed in.
Brigham didn’t insist further. He was even more impressed with Charles‘ and Skylar’s personalities. Especially Skylar, at such a young age, she was not only more beautiful than most female celebrities but also genuinely talented.
Even while casually chatting over dinner, Skylar identified the small object Brigham was fiddling with as belonging to a particular dynasty with its own intriguing backstory.
Brigham was left dumbfounded. He didn’t dare say much. He was afraid that despite his age, he might not know enough and be ridiculed.
Suddenly, he thought Skylar could be a consultant for future period dramas. There wouldn’t be any mistakes then, for sure.
When the painting finally arrived, Brigham gingerly unfolded it in front of Skylar.
Skylar examined it closely. Brigham stood nervously beside her.
While 50 million dollars wasn’t much to him, if it was a forgery, there was no point in keeping it at home where guests might mock him.
Charles was also nervous. This was the first time he saw Skylar at work. She was really…
Skylar was really outstanding.
After all, if the painting was shown to him, he couldn’t see anything in it. He just felt that this painting looked pretty artistic.
After carefully examining it from top to bottom, Skylar finally spoke slowly, “It’s authentic, not a forgery. However, there are a few areas where the color has been touched up. Apart from that, everything else is fine. It seems the person who did the touch–ups wasn’t very skilled. You can tell upon closer inspection.”
Skylar said, “Mr. Cohen, take a look here… And here…‘
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Skylar pointed out the areas that had been touched up.
Brigham was dumbfounded. “If you hadn’t pointed it out, I wouldn’t have
noticed. Skye, you’re amazing! Let me know how much this appraisal costs. I’ll transfer the amount to you now.”
Act Fast: Free Bonus Time is Running Out!
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No wonder Skylar made it into Alexander’s team. She really had some genuine skills. She was amazing at such a young age.
Skylar shook her head modestly. “It was just a small effort, Mr. Cohen. No need to fuss over it.”
“No, no! You’ve done me a huge favor! Skye, let me add your WhatsApp contact first. Next time, I insist on paying you for your services.” Brigham hurriedly requested Skylar’s contact.
Onlookers, including Charles and a few crew members, were stunned. It was their first time seeing Brigham actively adding someone on WhatsApp.
Moreover, his attitude was charming.
Usually, it was others seeking Brigham’s favor. However, the situation appeared to be reversed.
Indeed, it almost felt like Brigham was currying favor with Charles‘ sister.
In fact, this young woman was even prettier than the female lead in their film, However, Brigham’s attitude toward her was purely respectful. It was as if Skylar was a big shot.
Someone whispered to Charles, “What’s up with your sister?”
Charles first shook his head, then said, “My sister just helped Mr. Cohen appraise a painting.”
“Damn! What does your sister do? She’s so impressive!”
“She’s an antique restorer. She works in Mr. Gardner Senior’s team.” Charles straightened his posture. His tone was unusually calm. It was as if this was just a very ordinary little thing.
No one knew how proud Charles was to witness Skylar showcasing her talents firsthand. It was a feeling akin to his family’s pride in her becoming a grown–up.
He wondered if anyone else had felt this way. He really wanted to share this with Steven.
Meanwhile, in the crowd behind them, a man wearing a hat watched the scene
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with a dark expression. Samuel deliberately kept a low profile. Hence, no one
noticed him.
His gaze toward Skylar was cold. When he gazed toward Charles, it was filled with jealousy.
Samuel clenched his jaw tightly. His heart brimmed with intense envy.
Their family was almost at the bottom in Jipsburg City, and they might even have to slink back to Liberty County in disgrace.
Today, though Samuel was unwilling, he came out and tried his luck.
Previously, he had collaborated with Brigham on several films and had hoped
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Just as she was about to throw him over her shoulder, she heard him say, “You really are something, Skylar! You’re merely working in Mr. Gardner Senior’s team. Yet, you used him to fool Mr. Cohen into giving Charles a leading role. I’ve underestimated you. You’re such a scheming woman!”
When she did, Skylar looked at Samuel properly. He looked much worse than when they’d met in the mall.
“I’ve got nothing to do with the Williamses. When will you get smarter? You should take a leaf from Peter’s book and get out of my sight. Why are you actively looking for trouble?” said Skylar icily.
“Even if you don’t want to admit it, you are still our parent’s daughter. You should be helping the Williamses right now. Have you forgotten how you tried to appease me?” Samuel probably hadn’t eaten dinner. He spoke weakly. It sounded bone–chilling at night. His eyes were affixed on Skylar.
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