Chapter 93

Helena will turn 70 next month. Vernon and Charlene were discussing ideas for a celebration that the elderly woman would enjoy. Helena seemed unimpressed when she learned of their plans and remarked, "Don't fuss over me. " All I need is a straightforward supper with the family. "But it's your 70th birthday, Helena," added Aunt Maisie. Charlene and Vernon agreed, saying, "We should celebrate it with a bang." Helena didn't raise any more objections because it was what her children and grandchildren wanted. Jasmine has school tomorrow. Charlene and Jasmine drove off after dinner. When they got to their mansion, Jasmine jumped out of the car and ran excitedly inside. "Go to bed early after your bath," Charlene told Jasmine while sitting still in the automobile. Mom won't be coming up since she has some things to do."

Jasmine's smile dimmed. "What? " Her small brows wrinkled; she returned to the car and turned to face Charlene. "Mom, you're busy with work again?" "Yeah, just concentrate on your classes," Charlene said, keeping a straight look. If you need anything, give me a call. After pouting a while, Jasmine finally said, "Okay then." Thorne's job also kept him away from home a lot. Jasmine didn't give Charlene's late evenings much thought, assuming they were caused by her job. When they returned, the butler welcomed them. "Is Dad home?" inquired Jasmine. The butler, smiling, responded, "He is." Charlene, unconcerned, merely told Jasmine, "Mom has to go now." "Oh..." Jasmine stood aside. The butler, perplexed, inquired, "Are you leaving 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 away, while Jasmine waved farewell and went inside with the butler. When Jasmine entered, she asked, "Where's Dad?" "He should be in his study." "Jasmine went upstairs and noticed the study door ajar. Thorne was standing tall beside the window, apparently lost in thought. Dad," Jasmine shouted out. "Yeah." Thorne turned around. Jasmine explained, "Mom had to go again shortly after she returned." Thorne stubbed out his cigarette, adding, 'Yes, I saw.'" Your mom's been extremely busy recently, nearly as busy as your father. "Jasmine scowled, saying, "Mom's been really busy, huh?" 08:39. Horne laughed softly and replied, "Yeah." It was becoming late, and Jasmine was sleepy. She yawned. "I'm headed to the shower and bed. "Goodnight, Dad.

"Goodnight, sweet dreams," Thorne said. Charlene returned home, freshened up, and went directly to bed. Charlene didn't see Thorne for the following few days, including Thursday, when she returned to the estate to prepare for Jasmine. This time, there was no trace of Thorne or Vesta. For the next few days, including Thursday when Charlene returned to the estate to cook for Jasmine, there was no contact with Thorne. He stated he wasn't traveling, but he was busy and wouldn't be home for supper. Charlene didn't ask what he was doing, whether he was meeting with Vesta or working on serious business. Charlene received another call from Jasmine on Friday, while she was thinking about what to have for supper. "Mom and Dad won't be home this weekend. "When are you coming back?"