Chapter 93
Next month marks Helena’s 70th birthday.
Charlene and Vernon were brainstorming on how to throw a party that the old lady would love.
Upon hearing their plans, Helena didn’t seem too thrilled and said, “Don’t fuss over me. A simple dinner with the family is all I need.”
Aunt Maisie chimed in, “But it’s your 70th birthday, Helena. We should celebrate it with a bang…”
Charlene and Vernon agreed. Since it was the wish of her children and grandchildren, Helena didn’t object further.
Tomorrow, Jasmine has school. After dinner, Charlene drove off with Jasmine.
Arriving at their mansion, Jasmine hopped out of the car, sprinting inside with joy.
Charlene sat in the car, motionless, telling Jasmine, “Get to bed early after your bath. Mom has some work to do and won’t be coming up.” Jasmine’s smile faded, “What?”
She came back to the car, her little brows furrowed, looking at Charlene, “Mom, you’re busy with work again?” Charlene maintained a straight face and replied, “Yeah, just focus on your classes. Call me if you need anything.” Jasmine, slightly upset, pouted and finally said, “Okay then.”
Thorne was often away from home due to work too.
Assuming Charlene’s late nights were work-related, Jasmine didn’t think much of it.
The
butler greeted them upon their return.
Jasmine asked, “Is Dad home?”
The butler, all smiles, said, “He is.”
Charlene, unfazed, simply told Jasmine, “Mom has to go now.”
“Oh…” Jasmine stepped aside.
The butler, puzzled, asked, “Are you heading out again this late, ma’am?”
Charlene kept it brief, “Yes, I have some things to take care of.”
After telling Jasmine, “It’s cold outside, get in quick,” she drove off as Jasmine waved goodbye and went inside with the butler. Upon entering, Jasmine inquired, “Where’s Dad?”
“He should be in his study.”
Jasmine headed upstairs and saw the study door ajar. Thorne was there, standing tall by the window, seemingly lost in thought. “”Dad,” Jasmine called out.
“Yeah,” Thorne turned around.
Jasmine said, “Mom had to leave again right after getting back.”
Thorne stubbed out his cigarette, replying, “Yes, I saw. Your mom’s been quite busy lately, almost as busy as your dad.”
Jasmine frowned, saying, “Mom’s been really busy, huh?”
horne gave a small laugh and said, “Yeah.”
it was getting late, and Jasmine was tired, She yawned, “I’m off to shower and bed. Goodnight, Dad.”
Goodnight, sweet dreams,” Thorne replied.
Back at her place, Charlene went straight to bed after freshening up.
For the next few days, even on Thursday when Charlene went back to the mansion to cook for Jasmine, she didn’t run into Thorne at all. This time, there was no sign of Thorne or Vesta.
For the next few days, including Thursday when Charlene went back to the mansion to cook for Jasmine, there was no encounter with Thorne.
It was said he wasn’t traveling but was busy and wouldn’t be home for dinner.
As for what he was busy with, whether meetings with Vesta or actual business engagements, Charlene didn’t inquire.
On Friday, pondering what to have for dinner, Charlene received another call from Jasmine.
“Mom, Dad won’t be home this weekend. When are you coming back?”