Chapter 655
Aiken fixed his gaze on Skylar. “Hello,” he said, and thank you for your efforts.”
“Skylar, are you tired and hungry? Let’s have dinner now. It’s the perfect time for it,” Simona said.
She watched their polite exchange, eager for them to connect. Simona was delighted with her choice of a future sister–in–law.
Charming women always surrounded Aiken, but none had captured his interest enough for marriage. Simona hoped to change that; she didn’t want him to remain single forever.
While others couldn’t influence him, she believed Skylar could.
Skylar checked the time. It was already 7:00 pm.
“No need. I have other plans for the evening. Let’s have dinner another time,” Skylar said.
Just then, a WhatsApp message from Joe popped up on her phone. The text read, “Where are you? I’ll pick you up once I’m done.”
Skylar sent her location to Joe. “No need. I’m far from home.”
Joe replied, “Parkinson Residence?”
Skylar responded, “Yes.”
Looking up from her phone, Skylar saw Simona’s disappointed expression.
“Skylar, you’ve done me a huge favor. I can’t let you leave without a meal. Please stay for dinner,” Simona pleaded.
Aiken also spoke up. “Skylar, please stay for dinner. I’ll have the driver take you home afterward.”
“Yeah, Skylar. Stay and have dinner with us. I usually eat alone, and it’s rare for my brother to be home early. It’s a special occasion with you here. It’s been ages since the house was this lively,” Simona added. She was still using her charming tone.
Reluctantly, Skylar agreed. “Alright.”
Joe knew Skylar was at Parkinson Residence because of Simona, not Aiken. But Simona was connected to Aiken, a complex man.
“Has Aiken been busy lately?” Joe asked Paul.
Paul shook his head. “Aiken is extremely secretive about what he does, but he’s definitely busy with something. Speakin of which, how did Aiken’s sister come to know Mrs. Martin? She might not be aware of how complicated Aiken is. Should we let her know?”
Chapter 655
2/2
“She has her reasons for doing things. For now, there’s no need,” Joe said. He preferred not to interfere with Skylar’s affairs. He was certain Skylar was too intelligent to be
manipulated.
Paul glanced at the time. “Should we pick up Mrs. Martin?”
“Picking her up might seem too deliberate. Let’s head back to Galaxy Villa,” Joe decided. “Alright.”
The dinner was lavish. The long table was filled with a variety of dishes. Both Floan and Wiscadian cuisines were meticulously prepared.
Aiken occasionally asked Skylar questions about identifying genuine antiques, but the queries remained professional and did not delve into personal matters.
The atmosphere was relaxed and did not feel overwhelming.
Chapter 656
Skylar explained the complex subject matter truthfully. Such knowledge could be dry and difficult for those without a genuine interest. Surprisingly, Aiken was captivated and offered insightful observations.
Simona produced two amulets when the conversation shifted to amulets and similar items. “I spent a lot to have these made, but I’m not sure if they actually work. Aiken doesn’t believe in them, so he left them with me.”
Skylar took the amulets. Her brows furrowed as she quietly examined them.
Noticing her reaction, Aiken asked, “Is there a problem with them?”
*These aren’t amulets,” Skylar replied gravely, wondering who was secretly selling such harmful items.
‘Not amulets? Then what are they?” Aiken asked urgently.
Simona was shocked. “Aren’t they amulets? I’ve been wearing them for the past two years, except when bathing. They were made by a professional recommended by an elder, and we paid two million dollars for them.”
Skylar frowned at the mention of two million dollars. It was alarming that such harmful objects could be sold at such a high price. “The symbols on these aren’t protective. Instead, they interfere with the wearer’s concentration.
“You could think of it this way–a top student wearing one might struggle to focus on their studies, gradually falling behind until they become a poor student. Even someone driven in their career might lose motivation over time.”
“What?” Aiken, who rarely showed his emotions, stood up abruptly.
Simona’s face turned pale, and her fork fell to the floor.
Seeing their distress, Skylar softened her tone. “It’s not too late to address this. You should burn them to prevent any further effects.”
“Do you know why we’re so shocked, Skylar? It’s because Aiken and I couldn’t figure out why I was struggling in my studies. We finally have an answer. I used to excel in my studies.
“Before last year’s college entrance exams, I was confident I would become the top science student in Jipsburg City. But two years ago, I lost interest in studying and started rebelling.
“I began skipping classes and missing school. Aiken didn’t give up on me and sought out various psychologists to help me.
“However, none of the method the psychologists used worked. I eventually lost all interest in studying and have een on a leave of absence ever since.