Restless and frustrated, Joe lit a cigarette. A few drags didn’t ease his agitation.
He glanced at his chat with Skylar on his phone. Was she truly happy living at Pearlhall Residence? She had yet to send a single message or call him. He took a few more drags and dialed her number. However, it wasn’t Skylar who took his call,
“Hello, this is Caleb Gardner, Skylar’s assistant,” Caleb said, surprised to see “Partner” displayed on the caller ID.
Caleb pondered whether Skylar was engaged in a business venture with someone.
My Joe insured hea voice laced with suspicion
Joe’s voice, a deep, menacing rumble, sent a jolt of terror through the phone and straight down Caleb’s
ne, leaving him trembling
Yes, I’m Skylar’s assistant. She’s currently unavailable and can’t take your call. Please let me know if I can help you with anything. ITI pass the message along”
Joe’s expression hardened as he listened to Caleb’s voice. He bristled at the thought of a male assistant, especially one who sounded so young.
“Tell her to call me when she’s free,” Joe said curtly before hanging up.
Caleb blinked, confused. Who could that have been? Despite the icy tone, the caller seemed close to Skylar.
He approached Skylar, who was engrossed in work.
“Who was it?” Skylar asked.
“Someone named ‘Partner‘ called, Caleb said. “He said to have you call him back when you’re free. Are you in business with someone?”
Hearing “Partner piqued Skylar’s curiosity about Joe’s reason for calling.
Nonetheless, Caleb’s casual mention of “Partner” sent a jolt through her. Hadn’t she, on a whim, renamed Joe’s contact to “Partner“? She saw their relationship fitting that label. However, she hadn’t anticipated Joe calling while she was busy, and Caleb stepping in to answer had led to the misunderstanding.
She smiled. “That’s my husband.”
Skylar’s revelation caught Caleb off guard, the realization hitting him hard. When he thought about Skylar being another man’s wife, a pang of dissatisfaction settled in his gut. He wondered if this man deserved her and if he treated her well.
“So, that was your husband,” Caleb said, attempting nonchalance.
Skylar hummed in acknowledgment. She quickly finished her work and called Joe back.
“I was busy with work just now. Did you need something?” Skylar asked.
Joe’s response was sharp. “Can’t I call without needing something?”
Skylar was taken aback and unsure how to respond.
“What time will you be home tonight?” Joe continued.
“I should be home around 5:00 pm. If there’s anything you’d like for dinner, let me know. I can cook something for you,” Skylar replied.
Joe’s irritation subsided slightly at her concern. However, he wasn’t interested in food.
Chapter 404
“I’ll be devouring you tonight. Be ready by 9:00 pm,” he said, his tone a chilling mix of casualness and possessiveness. Skylar’s cheeks flushed at his suggestive words.
Taking a deep breath, Skylar was grateful Caleb was in the restroom and hadn’t overheard their conversation.