Chapter 1279

Over the years, he had developed a habit of lighting a cigarette whenever he encountered something troubling, though they all said he never used to smoke. This unconscious habit puzzled him. The doctor had explained it was due to excessive stress, claiming he was prone to illusions. He wondered if it was just an illusion. For some reason, his mind drifted back to that message he hadn't replied to. Skylar's name had taken over his thoughts. Skylar... a voice in his head told him that she was supposed to be his woman, that they were meant to be together. He should reply to that message. On one hand, his emotions were spiraling out of control, but his rational side urged him to stop before it was too late. Just as he was about to pick up his phone again, there was a knock on the door. "Ned, it's me." Rosa's tearful voice carried through the room. Ned set down his phone and went to open the door. The moment Rosa saw him, she flung herself into his arms, sobbing uncontrollably. "