Chapter 257
Charlene and Helena had been keeping Irma company for about half an hour when Thorne suddenly announced, “I’m going to step out for a bit.”
During that time, Thorne had mostly been a silent observer, not contributing much to the conversation.
Irma, not particularly impressed, waved him off. “Go if you must.”
Thorne left the room, not returning for quite a while.
Earlier, Abbey had made sure there was a good supply of fruit, pastries, and coffee. But after Abbey left, Charlene noticed that Helena’s coffee had cooled down. So, she grabbed the small pot and walked over to the coffee table, determined to make a fresh pot. Seeing Charlene take matters into her own hands made Irma think of Thorne. She frowned, “Thorne, honestly. Who knows what he’s up to, gone this long.”
Charlene hadn’t really thought much of it when Thorne said he was stepping out. But hearing Irma’s complaints now reminded her that Vesta was still downstairs. Thorne had probably gone to keep Vesta company, not wanting her to feel bored. Still, he’d been gone for a good half-hour, which was quite a long time.
After brewing the coffee, Charlene poured fresh cups for herself, Helena, and Irma. Just as she was setting down the pot, Thorne returned.
Irma shot him a look and huffed, “I thought you’d gone for good.”
Thorne just smiled, saying nothing.
Irma didn’t press further, instead complimenting, “Charlene, your coffee is always delightful.”
Thorne remained mostly quiet, letting them chat among themselves. But when their cups were empty, and Irma requested more, he dutifully brewed another round.
Another half-hour passed, and the sky outside was starting to darken.
Charlene and Helena decided it was time to head out.
Irma suggested Thorne join them for dinner, but Thorne hesitated.
Charlene quickly interjected, “There’s no need. We have soup waiting for us at home.”
She was telling the truth. Besides, neither she nor Helena was eager to have dinner with Thorne.
Irma probably sensed their reluctance and didn’t press the issue, simply asking Thorne to escort them
downstairs.
Thorne obliged, assuring Irma, “I’ve got some things to take care of, but I’ll be back tomorrow to see you.”
“Go on, then. Come back if you want,” Irma dismissed him with a wave, though she was secretly pleased with how attentive Thorne had been since her accident. He’d been quite dutiful, in fact. Her only gripe was his attitude toward Charlene. She could tell he was still set on the idea of ending things with her.
As Thorne walked Charlene and Helena to the elevator, they ran into Terence waiting for it, school backpack slung over his shoulder. Seeing them, he greeted warmly.
Charlene and Helena nodded back.
Terence asked, “Are you guys headed out for dinner?”
Before Charlene could respond, Thorne cut in with a question of his own, “Why aren’t you at school yet?”
“I’m just going to pop up and see Grandma for a bit, then I’ll head back.”
“Better hurry up, then.”
“Okay…”
With that, Terence boarded the elevator. Once Charlene and Helena reached the hospital entrance, they turned
to Thorne. “No need to walk us any further,” Charlene said.
Thorne nodded, not insisting. “Alright.”