Chapter 78

Charlene instinctively declined. "No need to trouble you. I can pick it up myself."

Her refusal was quick and decisive, leaving a brief silence. She then asked, "Mr. Harden?"

"Fine, I'll send you the garage's contact details shortly."

"Thanks, I appreciate it."

Granger didn't respond, simply ending the call.

With her injured foot, Charlene couldn't retrieve her car. After considering her options, she asked Stewart for help. He agreed to collect it after finishing his commitments.

That evening, after ordering pizza, Charlene received a call from Jasmine, inquiring about her return home. Charlene explained, "Sweetie, I sprained my ankle and it's difficult to walk, so I'm staying out to recover. You should go to bed early."

Jasmine was immediately worried. "What? Mommy, you hurt your ankle? Is it really bad? Does it hurt?"

"It hurts, but it's not severe. I'll be better in a few days."

"Okay."

Reassured, Jasmine still wanted to check on her. "So, where are you staying? We'll visit tomorrow when Dad gets home."

Charlene dismissed the idea. "No need. I can manage. Just focus on your studies."

"Okay then…"

After further conversation, they ended the call. Later, Thorne returned home.

Seeing him, Jasmine exclaimed, "Dad! Mommy hurt her ankle and is recovering outside!"

Thorne acknowledged with a "Hmm." He removed his suit jacket, gave it to the housekeeper, and said, "I know."

"Oh?" Jasmine looked up, surprised. "Dad, how did you know? Did Mommy tell you?"

Settling in with a glass of water from Latonia, Thorne replied, "No, but I saw it myself."

"Saw it?" Jasmine paused. "You were there when Mommy got hurt?"

"Yes."

Jasmine remembered something. "Oh, right, Mommy works at Dad's company, so you saw it, right?"

"Not exactly," Thorne's tone was indifferent. "Mom doesn't work for my company anymore."

"What?" Jasmine looked up, puzzled. "So, where does Mommy work now?"

"At a place she likes."

"Oh…"

After finishing his water, Thorne stood, ruffled Jasmine's hair, and advised, "Get some rest."

"Okay."

Around 8 pm, Stewart returned with Charlene's car. While taking the keys, Charlene asked, "How much was the repair bill?" She intended to reimburse him.

Sitting on the couch, Stewart responded, "How would I know?"

"Huh?" Charlene was puzzled. "How did you pick up the car without paying?"

"No one asked for payment. The workers let me take it when they heard it was yours."

Charlene paused, understanding. Had Granger paid? That was unexpected.

"What's wrong?" Stewart noticed her expression.

Charlene shook her head. "Nothing."

"Then let's get to the homework so I can go home and rest. It's been a long day. I'm beat!" He referred to the exhibition review Kenton had assigned that morning. "Sure," Charlene agreed, "but let me make a quick call."

"Alright."

Charlene called Granger. He answered almost instantly. "Hello?"

"Mr. Harden, it's me, Charlene."

Granger: "I know. What's up?"

Charlene stated, "About the car, I have it back. Did you cover the repair expenses? If so, how much? I'll transfer the money."