Chapter 89

Twenty minutes later, Thorne and Jasmine arrived. Irma didn't glance at Thorne but warmly beckoned Jasmine with a smile, saying, "Here, my darling Minnie."

"Great-grandma," Jasmine ran toward Irma, who hugged her and ruffled her hair before turning to Charlene. "Mommy."

"Sweetie." As Charlene hugged Jasmine, she detected a faint scent of Vesta's perfume on her clothes. She didn't voice her thoughts but gently released her.

Thorne sat beside Irma, handing her a box. "A peace offering."

It contained Irma's favorite iced tea, a rare and expensive variety. Irma understood it was an apology for missing their last trip to Sapphire Springs Resort.

She huffed, "Thinking of gifts for me, but what about Charlene? Have you prepared a peace offering for her?"

Thorne smiled, remaining silent, but glanced at Charlene—a glance devoid of emotion.

Irma was ready to defend Charlene, hoping to gain Thorne's attention. But for Charlene, it no longer mattered.

Without looking at Thorne, she smiled and said, "Irma, the food's getting cold. Let's eat."

Irma believed Charlene was avoiding the conversation about Thorne. After all, Charlene usually excused Thorne's neglect when Irma scolded him.

Irma sighed in resignation. "You're always taking his side."

Charlene smiled, saying nothing. Thorne remained indifferent, his expression unchanged.

It was late. Time to eat. Irma stood, taking Jasmine's hand. "Minnie hasn't dined with Great-grandma in a long time. Will you sit beside me today?"

Jasmine nodded obediently. "Okay."

"You're a good girl," Irma said, glancing meaningfully at Thorne.

Charlene knew Irma was attempting to play matchmaker. She didn't seek Thorne's reaction but followed Irma into the dining room.

Sitting opposite Irma and Jasmine, she noticed Thorne pull out the chair beside her and sit down.

Irma seemed pleased. Once served, she said to Thorne, "Serve Charlene some food."

Charlene didn't look at Thorne, saying, "No need, Irma. I can—"

Before she finished, Thorne served her favorite stir-fried meat.

Charlene paused. "Thank you."

Thorne said nothing. Irma's request wasn't for a single dish but for Thorne to attend to Charlene throughout the meal. As her plate emptied, Thorne refilled it, always with her favorites. However, this wasn't unusual; it had happened several times over the years, and Thorne possessed a good memory.

After dinner, Thorne chatted with Irma. Charlene remained mostly silent, rarely engaging Thorne, and he avoided eye contact.

Witnessing their minimal communication after so many years, Irma sighed helplessly.

By nine o'clock, Irma, tired, dismissed them, suggesting they retire.