Chapter 38

With faces as diverse as a patchwork quilt, the announcement sparked a surge of reactions in the room. For years, there had been rumors that Thorne had married in a covert ceremony. However, nobody was able to figure out who the mysterious Mrs. Henderson was. There were whispers that Thorne had never been married. The situation was unclear, and most people were too shy to ask more questions. As a result, many people were shocked when Thome casually suggested having a daughter. But soon after, the curiosity vanished and was replaced by a polite stillness.

Jasmine was quite anxious after supper. She had been anticipating Charlene's return home. By nine o'clock, however, after taking a bath, Charlene had vanished from view. Jasmine listened for any outside noise. When she heard a car engine hum just after ten, she became hopeful and ran downstairs, yelling, "Mommy—" Her enthusiasm was dashed as Thorne entered, and she stopped talking quickly. "Dad? Observing his daughter's dissatisfied look, Thorne gave his coat to the housekeeper. "What's wrong?

"I assumed it was Mommy returning." "She hasn't returned yet?" Thorne said, pausing before continuing, unfazed by the sting of "absent mom, forgotten dad." "No..." Thorne comforted her, not too worried, "It's likely that she's caught up with something." She promised to transport you to school tomorrow, didn't she? You'll see her in the morning if you go to bed early. Jasmine felt a little better after that. "Okay." Thorne went upstairs and went back to his study to finish off some work. It was almost midnight when he was done. He was so preoccupied that he almost expected Charlene to have come back.

However, he discovered their room was vacant when he went back to it. She had failed to return home. The Ross family appeared to be in serious difficulty. Thorne considered that and walked idly to the restroom. Charlene got up early the next day since she had to manage the school. early. She grabbed a short meal and drove out of the area. locality. She was momentarily confused when she entered the well-known gated neighborhood. It had been her home for over seven years. However, it seemed like a lifetime had gone by after only three weeks. Charlene felt alienated even though the surroundings remained the same. unfamiliar. With a warm greeting, the housekeeper said, "Welcome back, Mrs. Henderson."

"Is Minnie awake yet?" Charlene said, hesitating at the term but without correcting him. "She needs to get up soon or she won't have breakfast." Charlene urged Latonia, the maid, to encourage Minnie to go upstairs rather than going herself. "Have you had breakfast, Mrs. Henderson? It's ready if you—" the housekeeper said. "With you—" Charlene smiled softly and said no. Thank you, but no. I've had some food. As Thorne came down the stairs, Charlene nodded to him in a nonverbal hello.

"All right then," she said. As Thorne was ready to say anything, Jasmine ran down the stairs and sprang into Charlene's arms. arms. Charlene gave her a hug while lovingly tousling her hair. "We have to go quickly since breakfast is ready. "Yes!" Jasmine's day quickly brightened when she saw her mother, snuggling close and filling the room with her comforting aroma. Charlene stayed seated and said, "Mommy, stay with me while I eat, okay?" "I've eaten, but go ahead." "Then chat with me?" pouted Jasmine.

Thorne sat at the dining table, and they talked. In accordance with Jasmine's request, Charlene sat down opposite Thorne. 09:51 Nupter 38. Charlene ignored Thorne as the maid brought her a cup of coffee, which she sipped calmly while listening to Jasmine's lively account of her school day. Thome couldn't help but observe Charlene's icy manner, which stood in sharp contrast to how kind she had been on their last visit to the Henderson Mansion. As the tension in the air increased, he paused mid-bite and scowled.