Chapter 1000

chapter1000

Jenny’s eyes flushed crimson, stung by the weight of Edwin’s belittlement. She didn’t believe she was as worthless as he implied. While she might not possess Skylar’s rare talent for appraising and restoring antiques—nor her effortless ability to keep the formidable Gloria happy—Jenny viewed herself as kind-hearted and pure.

Moreover, she possessed a fresh, youthful beauty that often caught the eyes of talent scouts on the street. In her own mind, she was in no way inferior.

“Mr. Martin, I truly cannot continue with this,” Jenny pleaded, her voice trembling. “Please, find someone else. There are countless models and actresses in Jipsburg who would be more than willing to accompany you. Why must you choose me?”

Edwin, however, had long since lost his patience. “And how many of those women are truly innocent? You have no idea how many men they’ve been through to get where they are. You’re different.”

He wasn't entirely sure why, but lately, his thoughts had been occupied by her more than usual. She was young, attractive, and possessed a natural knack for pleasing. Perhaps men of his age were simply drawn to that specific brand of youthful energy.

Jenny took a deep, shuddering breath and turned to leave. “I really can’t!”

“If you dare walk out that door, I’ll make sure Rowan sees the photos of you coming here to meet me by tomorrow morning,” Edwin threatened, a dark smirk playing on his lips. “Think very carefully about the consequences.”

Jenny froze, her expression shifting to one of sheer terror. “Mr. Martin…”

“It’s not as if this is your first time. Stop pretending,” Edwin said dismissively. “Once you’re married to Rowan, I’ll have no reason to bother you. In fact, once the deal is done, I’ll transfer a generous sum to your account. You stand only to benefit here. Think it through.”

Edwin had a practiced knack for handling women like her. He knew that while they might resist with words, a well-placed bit of pressure would eventually force them into line.

Jenny remained rooted to the spot. She didn't dare take the risk; she knew Edwin was a man of his word when it came to his threats. She looked back at him, her voice hollow. “You promise? If I marry Rowan, you’ll never come after me again?”

“I always keep my word,” Edwin replied smoothly.

Meanwhile, in Fachington, Skylar and Joe had spent the entire afternoon lost in the joy of the city. They only returned to their hotel after a leisurely dinner, as the night sky settled over the streets.

Skylar was still buzzing from the day’s excitement, scrolling through the photos on her phone. There were pictures of her and Joe together, solo shots against iconic backdrops, and spontaneous captures of the local scenery.

After hours of walking, her feet were aching. Joe noticed her wincing slightly as she remained engrossed in her screen. “Want to take a shower first?” he asked.

Skylar looked up from a chat with Charles and smiled. “You go ahead. I want to finish talking to Charles for a bit longer.”

“Okay.”

A few minutes later, the rhythmic sound of the shower echoed from the bathroom. Skylar glanced toward the door, seeing Joe’s silhouette through the frosted glass. She paused for a moment, a sense of warmth washing over her, before returning to her conversation with Charles.

Charles had just wrapped up a major film project and was taking a week off before diving into his next role.

“I’ve transferred some money to your account,” Charles texted. “If you find a bag you like while you're out there, buy it. And if you want a second one for yourself, go ahead—it’s on me.”

He had noticed how much emphasis female celebrities placed on their accessories and thought Skylar deserved the best. Now that he had the financial means, he wanted to make sure she was taken care of.

Skylar couldn't help but smile at his protectiveness. “Charles, I’m earning my own way now. If I see something I love, I can get it myself. Save your money for when you find a wife.”

Charles replied almost instantly. “I’m focused entirely on my career right now. Marriage isn't on my radar. Be prepared, Skylar—I may never get married at all.”

Charles wasn't joking. His commitment to his craft was absolute, leaving little room for the complications of a personal life.