Chapter 93

Next month marks Helena’s 70th birthday. Charlene and Vernon brainstormed ideas for a party she would enjoy. Helena, however, wasn't enthusiastic. "Don't fuss," she said. "A simple family dinner is all I need."

Aunt Maisie protested, "But it's your 70th, Helena! We should celebrate!" Charlene and Vernon agreed, and Helena, swayed by her children and grandchildren's wishes, didn't object further.

The next day, after dinner, Charlene drove Jasmine to their mansion. Jasmine raced inside, full of excitement. Charlene, remaining in the car, instructed Jasmine, "Get to bed early after your bath. Mom has work to do and won't be coming up."

Jasmine's smile vanished. "What?" she asked, returning to the car, her brow furrowed. "Mom, you're busy with work again?"

Charlene replied calmly, "Yes, just focus on your classes. Call me if you need anything." Jasmine, slightly disappointed, mumbled, "Okay then."

Thorne was often away for work, so Jasmine didn't dwell on Charlene's late nights. The butler greeted them upon their return. Jasmine asked, "Is Dad home?"

"He is," the butler replied, smiling.

Charlene, without hesitation, told Jasmine, "Mom has to go now." Jasmine stepped aside. The butler, looking puzzled, inquired, "Are you heading out again this late, ma'am?"

Charlene replied briefly, "Yes, I have some things to take care of." After telling Jasmine, "It's cold outside, get in quickly," she drove off as Jasmine waved goodbye and entered the house with the butler.

Inside, Jasmine asked, "Where's Dad?" "He should be in his study," the butler responded.

Jasmine found the study door ajar. Thorne stood by the window, lost in thought. "Dad," she called.

"Yeah," he replied, turning.

Jasmine said, "Mom had to leave again right after getting back." Thorne stubbed out his cigarette. "Yes, I saw," he said. "Your mom's been quite busy lately, almost as busy as your dad."

Jasmine frowned. "Mom's been really busy, huh?"

Thorne chuckled softly. "Yeah." It was late, and Jasmine was tired. Yawning, she said, "I'm off to shower and bed. Goodnight, Dad."

"Goodnight, sweet dreams," Thorne replied.

Charlene went straight to bed after freshening up. For the next few days, even on Thursday when she returned to the mansion to cook for Jasmine, she didn't see Thorne. There was no sign of Thorne or Vesta. He was reportedly not traveling, but busy and unable to have dinner at home. Charlene didn't inquire about the nature of his engagements, whether meetings with Vesta or business matters.

On Friday, while planning dinner, Charlene received a call from Jasmine. "Mom, Dad won't be home this weekend. When are you coming back?"