Chapter 762

Skylar kept her gaze fixed on the television, her answer firm. "No." She would never forgive him. This scoundrel had abandoned his wife and children for years, all in the name of chasing his so-called true love. After disappearing for over a decade, he suddenly wanted to return now that the children were grown. He had spent all that time with his mistress. Did he think his ex-wife was merely a receptacle for his past mistakes? He had neglected his wife and children for years, giving his best years to his mistress. Now, he should let the mistress and their child care for him.

Janine wasn't surprised by Skylar's response. A small smile played on her lips. She mused on how, even with age, Skylar seemed so idealistic. The person she'd seen in the hospital didn't match the irresponsible character depicted on television.

"Mom, what about you? If you were the original wife on TV, would you forgive him?" Skylar asked.

Janine hesitated briefly, then smiled. "Do I really need to say it? A man that irresponsible is repulsive. He should keep his distance."

"Exactly, Mom." Skylar nodded vigorously. Her adoptive mother was kind, but possessed a sharpness that deterred exploitation.

Janine and Skylar watched another episode. When it ended, Skylar went to the bathroom. Before she could emerge, a knock sounded on the door.

Sitting on the couch, Janine leaned on her crutch, attempting to stand. "Who's there?" The old building lacked soundproofing, so her voice carried clearly.

"It's me, Mom."

The voice was initially unfamiliar, but Janine quickly recognized it. "Is that you, Joe?"

"Yes, it's me." Joe's voice came again.

Janine adjusted her stance, leaning on her crutch to open the door.

Skylar emerged from the bathroom. "Mom, let me get that. You sit down."

"Alright," Janine replied, returning to her seat and setting her crutch aside. Using a crutch was still somewhat new to her.

Skylar opened the door to find Joe standing there, holding health supplements. She hadn't expected this and couldn't help but smile slightly.

"What brings you here?" she asked.

Joe raised an eyebrow, questioning his welcome. In his usual calm manner, he replied, "I came to visit my mother-in-law."

Skylar momentarily forgot that Joe was now Janine's son-in-law. Realizing this, she reached for the supplements.

"It's alright," Joe said, preventing her. "They aren't heavy."

Janine smiled at Joe. "Joe, come in. Skylar will get your slippers."

Skylar immediately fetched them. As Joe changed, he glanced at Skylar with a solemn expression before sitting on the couch. Skylar found his gaze puzzling, wondering what it meant. Something about it made her feel guilty, as if she had wronged him.

"It's nothing serious," Janine said. "The doctor said it's just a matter of rest. Skylar is overly concerned. You and Skylar should head back; I can manage on my own."

Joe nodded. "I'm glad to hear you're okay, Mom. I'll stay here with Skylar for the next few days to help take care of you."

"What?" Skylar was surprised.