Chapter 94
Charlene was tasked with looking after Jasmine every weekend. For reasons known or unknown, Thorne had been spending more time with Jasmine in the past couple of years. If Thorne had engagements or unavoidable commitments, Charlene stepped in.
Returning to the townhouse, she casually asked Jasmine where she’d like to go that weekend. After a moment, Jasmine shook her head. "I don't really want to go anywhere special," she said.
Charlene knew Jasmine wasn't lacking for destinations; she simply preferred spending weekends with Thorne and Vesta. With neither present, Jasmine's enthusiasm for outings had waned. Instead of pressing the issue, Charlene suggested, "How about horseback riding?"
Jasmine hadn't ridden in a while. Her interest piqued, she eagerly agreed.
The next day, Charlene took Jasmine to the local equestrian center. While Jasmine changed, Charlene overheard her chatting with the instructor. "My dad and Vesta are amazing at horseback riding," Jasmine said, her back turned. "It's too bad they couldn't come with me today…"
Charlene stood at the entrance, hesitant to interrupt. The instructor greeted her. "Ms. Ross," she said, offering to call for assistance. Charlene gratefully accepted.
Although a capable rider, Charlene usually focused on Jasmine during their visits and hadn't ridden seriously in three or four years. Initially cautious, she accepted the instructor's help. Soon, however, she confidently took the reins and galloped off.
After several laps, Charlene checked on Jasmine. From a distance, she saw Thorne and Vesta. Jasmine was happily clinging to Vesta's leg, the trio engaged in cheerful conversation. Soon, Jasmine and Vesta mounted a horse together, Jasmine in front, Vesta behind. Thorne mounted another, and the two horses walked side by side, the trio laughing and chatting like a close-knit family.
They moved away, oblivious to Charlene's presence. She withdrew her gaze and left.
After changing and resting, Thorne called. "Hello?" Charlene answered.
"I'm at the equestrian center," Thorne said. "I'll take Minnie."
"Alright," Charlene replied.
Thorne hung up with his usual briskness. Charlene, having received confirmation of Jasmine's arrangements, gathered her bag and left.