Unknown Divorce: Revelation Beyond Time Novel by Miss Lyra (Chapters 41 to 50)

Chapter 41

After Connie’s fever subsided the following day, Charlene finally returned home. She hadn’t yet prepared her outfit for the banquet the coming evening. So, she decided to venture out that afternoon.

Charlene arrived at a high–end boutique, noticing the manager and several assistants fussing over a particular dress. It wasn’t until Charlene approached that they acknowledged her presence.

“Sorry, miss, how can I help you today?”

“I’m browsing for now.”

“Of course, take your time.”

Despite marrying into the Henderson family, Charlene had rarely attended social gatherings. Thorne and Claudia often attended formal events without her, and Irma had withdrawn from the social scene years ago.

Although Charlene wasn’t a fashion expert, years of exposure to Connie’s high–end clothing line had honed her aesthetic sensibilities. However, the boutique’s selection overwhelmed her with its beauty and variety. She wasn’t looking for anything specific, just something decent enough for the occasion.

Then, her eyes landed on a breathtaking dress that the assistants had attended to earlier. It was a light purple chiffon gown with an elegantly cinched waist and a beautifully intricate floral pattern. Paired with a sophisticated necklace, the dress perfectly balanced elegance and luxury.

Drawn to it, Charlene moved closer. As she was about to touch the fabric, the manager swiftly grabbed her hand, causing her to wince in pain.

Releasing her hand immediately, the manager apologized, “Sorry, miss, I didn’t mean to. It’s just that this dress is a custom piece for a VIP client, one of a kind, and quite expensive. We can’t afford any mishaps.”

“It’s okay.” Realizing someone else had ordered the dress, Charlene felt disappointed. The prices in the boutique ranged from a few thousand to over a million dollars for the most exquisite pieces. Yet, even the priciest gowns paled compared to the one she had just seen.

Eventually, Charlene settled on a cream–colored silk gown with elegant lace detailing. As she paid and waited for the dress to get packed, she overheard two assistants whispering, “They said that dress and necklace combo were worth over thirty million! It’s as expensive as a house.”

“Some people do live in a different world. And to think, it might only be worn once…”

Thirty million? Even without an owner, it was way beyond her budget. Shaking her head, Charlene left the boutique.

Back home, Connie called to invite her for a lavish dinner the following evening. Learning about the banquet, Connie rushed over the following afternoon, eager to style Charlene personally.

Charlene had a good eye. The dress she chose was lovely. With Connie’s expert makeup, Charlene’s elegantly understated beauty shone through magnificently.

When Stewart arrived to pick her up that evening, he was stunned by her appearance. “You look stunning. It suits you perfectly.”

Charlene smiled. “Thank you.”

As they drove, Stewart mentioned, “So, returning to the company tomorrow?”

“Yes,” said Charlene.

“Great. You’ll meet Vesta, too.” Realizing she might not know who Vesta was, Stewart added, “She’s the programming prodigy I mentioned. She’s starting tomorrow as well. I’ll introduce you two.”

Chapter 42

Charlene’s face froze. “Vesta? Do you mean Vesta Hawkins? The one who just got back from Goldland?

Stewart nodded, surprised. “Yeah, you know her?”

“She’s my half-sister,” Charlene revealed.

Stewart was shocked. He had heard more or less about Charlene’s family situation, but this coincidence caught him off guard.

Charlene’s gaze turned icy as she added another piece to the puzzle. “She’s also Thorne’s mistress?

The car screeched to a halt. “You-”

Charlene shook her head. “I’m fine.” Her expression was eerily calm as she continued, “Call it nepotism or whatever, but I don’t want her joining our company.”

Stewart’s demeanor shifted to one of firm agreement. “You don’t have to worry. I support your decision?

Charlene felt a warm feeling inside. “Thank you.” She paused, then added, “But that means you’re missing out on a talent.”

Stewart chuckled, giving her a knowing look. “She might be a genius in coding, but compared to you, she’s not worth much.” He spoke with unwavering sincerity.

Charlene was stunned, thinking Stewart was laying it on thick.

Reading her thoughts, Stewart assured, “I’m serious.”

Charlene hadn’t expected such a bold statement. After a moment, she asked, “She’s been interviewed a while ago. Why hasn’t she started working yet?”

Stewart shook his head. “She mentioned having some matters to sort out. I didn’t pry.”

They arrived at their destination ten minutes later, with Charlene deep in thought.

“What’s on your mind?” Stewart inquired.

“I don’t get why she’d want to join our company,” Charlene mused. Even though their company was doing well, there were bigger fishes in the sea. With Vesta’s credentials and background, her opportunities were endless. Since Charlene was a major yet secret shareholder, she doubted Vesta knew about their ties.

So, Vesta’s interest wasn’t likely personal.

Stewart stroked his chin and smiled. “When we talked, she mentioned our company’s programming language, CUAP. She seemed intrigued by it.”

CUAP was a language Charlene had led a team to develop at 17. Initially deemed average by many, it had become the company’s most formidable asset. Its complexity had stumped even the most skilled teams, elevating it to a nearly mythical status within the industry.

Vesta was drawn to this programming marvel.

“Come to think of it. Many top talents have joined us in the last few years, all because of CUAP,” Stewart added.

Charlene was surprised by this revelation.

Seeing her reaction, Stewart gently patted her head, chuckling. “That’s why I’m saying, she’s nothing compared to you. Your skill in our field is something I, someone who knows you really well, can back up.”

After all, before Charlene emerged on the scene, Stewart had been a prodigy admired by many.

Chapter 43

When they arrived, the banquet hall was almost full of people, buzzing with the chatter of guests who had gathered for the evening’s festivities.

With her stunning looks and elegant demeanor, Charlene instantly caught the attention of many guests as she entered.

The host, who knew Stewart well, gave them a warm greeting as they walked into the hall.

Just as he was about to exchange pleasantries with Stewart and Charlene, new arrivals at the entrance caught his eye, causing a brief moment of stunned silence.

The other guests shared his reaction, turning their heads in surprise and delight at the sight of the newcomers.

With their backs to the entrance, Charlene and Stewart were unaware of the cause of the commotion. Driven by curiosity, they were about to turn around when the host excused himself with an apologetic glance and hurried toward the door.

“Mr. Henderson, Mr. Harden, Mr. Albright-”

Hearing those names, a hunch formed in Charlene’s mind. She turned around, and her smile slightly faltered at the sight.

It was Thorne, Granger, and Moran, as she had suspected. But what caught her off guard was the presence of Vesta, donned in the breathtaking lavender gown she had admired in a boutique the day before, worth over thirty million!

Tall and statuesque, Vesta wore the gown with effortless elegance and allure, making her appear seductive and untouchable. “Can you believe it? Thorne, Granger, and Moran hardly attend these events! What brought them out tonight?”

“And who’s that stunning woman with them? Could she be Thorne’s lady? That ravishing and unapproachable aura is out of this world. Only a top dog could have such exquisite taste. If I could have a woman like that, I’d gladly trade years of my life!”

“But I was more taken by the lady in the beige dress. Her aura is so pure, serene, and radiant. She seems rarer than the boss’s woman, but alas, she has a date.”

Then, an exclamation cut through the murmur. “My God, that dress! I saw it yesterday and got blown away! I heard it was custom–made by a big shot for his girlfriend. I wondered who it could be, and it turned out to be Thorne! Thirty million, can you believe it?”

“What? Thirty million?”

After hearing that, Charlene’s gaze softened.

Seeing the dress on Vesta had led her to suspect it was a gift from Thorne. Despite their growing fortune, the Hawkins family couldn’t justify such an extravagant expense for a single event, but for Thorne, thirty million was a mere trifle.

It was clear that Thorne had put much thought into this gesture for Vesta. The dress was ordered half a month in advance, meaning he planned to bring Vesta to the banquet from the beginning.

Aware of Thorne’s usual disinterest in social gatherings, Stewart found the coincidence surprising. And then, Thorne had brought Vesta along.

Worried, Stewart glanced at Charlene. “Charlene…”

Charlene offered a reassuring smile, shaking her head gently. “I’m fine.”

Chapter 44

At first, she was shocked, but later, Charlene couldn’t care less.

People swarmed toward Thome and his crew, creating a dense wall of bodies. Thorne and his companions were oblivious to Charlene’s presence among the sea of faces.

Charlene might have looked gentle and composed, but Stewart knew better. Beneath that calm exterior, Charlene was a force to be reckoned with, daring in thought and action.

At work, if something tickled her fancy, she’d throw herself into it full tilt, giving it her all, no matter if it was marketable or not. She believed you can’t know how good something is until you give it a whirl.

‘The same went for love. She loved Thome enough to bet her future on him, abandoning the chance for further education to commit to family life.

However, having taken the plunge, despite the high price, Stewart never saw regret in Charlene’s eyes.

So, when Charlene said she was fine and ready to move on,

Stewart believed her.

He smiled. “Fancy a drink?”

Charlene returned the smile. “Sounds good.”

They went through the crowd to the refreshments area.

“Want something alcoholic?”

“Just a bit.”

Charlene wasn’t much of a drinker, but her tolerance was good. They clinked glasses and stood quietly to the side, savoring their drinks. Suddenly, someone approached them.

“Stewart, you’re here too?”

“Professor Hancock.” Stewart welcomed the new arrival warmly. “I was about to look for you but couldn’t find you anywhere.”

Professor Hancock teased, “Really? Somehow, I find that hard to believe.”

“Cross my heart. It’s true. I’m here specifically to introduce someone to you.”

“Oh?” Professor’s gaze fell on Charlene, his surprise tinged with curiosity.

She was a striking and elegant young woman, but why introduce her to him? Had Stewart not been known for his integrity, Hancock might have suspected…

“Isn’t the language programming project you’ve been working on a bit of a bottleneck? And this is…” Stewart offered a genteel gesture toward Charlene. “Charlene Ross, my junior, a prodigy in language programming. I guarantee she can help you out.”

“Your junior?”

Stewart’s mentor, Kenton Wagner, was a titan in the Al field, and his students, though young, were pillars in the tech community But the name Charlene was unfamiliar to him.

“Absolutely,” Stewart assured, smiling. “Charlene led the CUAP project eight years ago.”

Speaking of programming languages, few held as much prestige nationally as CUAP.

Professor Hancock was incredulous. “Seriously?”

“The truth will reveal itself once you’ve talked to her. I’m sure.”

Excited, Professor Hancock tentatively asked Charlene a few questions. As the conversation about his dilemma unfolded, his excitement grew, and their discussion became increasingly animated.

Sipping his drink, Stewart smiled and watched from the sidelines, not wanting to interrupt.

Just then, Stewart looked up and saw Vesta approaching.

Vesta nodded with a polite smile upon making eye contact.

Aware of Vesta’s reputation, Stewart paused mid-motion. But before he could react, Vesta was already standing before him. “Mr. Ferguson.”

Chapter 45

Before Stewart could utter a word, Charlene heard someone approaching to greet Stewart. While glancing sideways, her gaze met Vesta’s head–on.

Initially wearing a polite smile, Vesta instantly turned icy when she laid eyes on Charlene.

With just one look, she shifted her gaze away as if Charlene was invisible and turned to Stewart with a light smile, about to speak. However, Stewart smiled and turned to Charlene, saying, “This is Ms. Hawkins, Charlene. Would you like to meet her?”

Stewart’s statement carried multiple layers. First, it indicated his close relationship with Charlene. Second, he was aware of the tension between Charlene and Vesta. Third, he made his stance clear. Between Vesta and Charlene, he sided with Charlene.

‘Vesta had no idea about the friendship between Stewart and Charlene, not to mention their close bond. But even though she didn’t know the specifics, she quickly caught on to Stewart’s hint.

“So, Mr. Ferguson, are you suggesting I shouldn’t bother showing up at PrimeStar Technologies tomorrow?” she asked, her tone cold. Stewart chuckled appreciatively, setting down his glass and clapping in approval. “Ms. Hawkins, you’re indeed sharp.”

Stewart could have conveyed his message more diplomatically. But he chose not to.

In doing so, he made it clear to Vesta that there was no room for subtlety. He was on Charlene’s side, and he made his decision for Charlene.

Vesta understood. Yet, she didn’t feel embarrassed or humiliated. In her eyes, PrimeStar was decent but couldn’t compare to the Henderson Group. Stewart wasn’t significant enough to humiliate her. Without another word, she turned and left.

Watching the exchange, Charlene smiled warmly and was about to speak to Stewart when she noticed Thorne, Granger, and Moran looking their way.

Their attention was initially on Vesta and then shifted toward her. They might be surprised to see her at the gathering.

Moran and Granger had shocked looks on their faces, but Thorne’s face was a total poker face. It seemed like Charlene might as well have been a stranger to him instead of his wife.

“What’s up?” Stewart inquired.

Charlene shook her head, smiling. “Nothing.”

By then, Vesta had returned to her group, and Thorne and his companions no longer paid attention to Charlene.

Charlene continued her conversation with Professor Hancock.

After Professor Hancock left, Charlene sipped her drink and noticed Moran smirking at her from across the room. As for Thorne, he turned away from her.

Seeing her gaze, Moran raised his eyebrows and toasted her from afar.

Charlene frowned, puzzled by Moran’s gesture. It seemed Moran was mocking her, implying the issue with Vesta wasn’t over. Charlene’s frown deepened.

Later, having made his rounds, the evening’s host returned and casually asked Stewart, “You know Ms. Hawkins?” Naturally, he was referring to Vesta.

Stewart replied with a smile, “Sort of. Why?”

“I chatted with her earlier. It turns out she’s from Riverstone, not Starfall. Her family business is doing well in Riverstone and is

reputable there. But here in Starfall, they’re considered more modest, especially compared to the Henderson, the Harden, and the Albright families. They’re practically invisible.”

Chapter 46

“In circles like ours, getting noticed is no small feat, never mind getting chummy with the likes of the Henderson family But Ms. Hawkins? She waltzed right into the inner circle like it was nothing, buddying up with them and all. Quite the feat.”

“I wondered why Thome suddenly showed up at my dinner party. It turned out he was there to network with Ms. Hawkins

“When Thome goes out of his way to lay down connections for someone, bringing Granger and the gang along, it speaks volumes. If she were only some fling, Thorne wouldn’t bother to such an extent.”

“With Thorne paving the way, the Hawkins family will soar.”

Stewart and Charlene listened without interrupting.

Finally, the host sighed, “To have a daughter like that, the Hawkins family must’ve struck gold. Truly enviable.”

As the host finished, Charlene looked up to see Thorne and his group had left the banquet hall, seemingly having departed early. Even if Thorne had noticed her, he hadn’t glanced at her throughout the night.

Half an hour later, Charlene and Stewart also left.

Back home, her phone rang. It was Thorne.

Charlene stopped in her tracks. Was he calling to give her an earful? Thinking she had teamed up with Stewart against Vesta? Considering Moran’s heads up at the party, it was quite possible that’s what Thorne was thinking.

Two seconds later, she answered calmly, “Hello?”

Thorne’s voice came through all frosty. “Come home.”

Charlene didn’t see any reason to go back. “Just say what you need to.”

“Minnie’s got a fever. She wants to see you.” He hung up right after.

Charlene blinked, grabbed her car keys, slipped on her shoes, and left.

Arriving at the villa, she didn’t see Thorne but didn’t think much of it as she headed straight to her daughter’s bedroom on the second floor.

Jasmine was burning up and on an IV drip, looking miserable. “Mommy,” she weakly said and reached out for a hug.

Careful of the IV needle in her daughter’s hand, Charlene wrapped her in a gentle embrace and asked Latonia, the nanny, “Has she eaten anything?”

Latonia replied, “She threw up not long after eating.”

Charlene frowned, consulted the doctor about Jasmine’s condition, and turned to Jasmine, who clung to her, “Hungry? How about I make you your favorite soup? You can have some after the drip.”

“Okay.” Jasmine had always been taken care of by Charlene whenever she fell ill.

She couldn’t stomach soup made by anyone else. She only wanted what her mother made.

Curling her little nose, she asked, “Where’s Daddy? Isn’t Daddy back yet?”

Charlene paused. She had assumed Thorne was home when he called. Not seeing Thorne upon entering, she thought he might be in his study.

Hearing Jasmine’s words, she realized Thorne hadn’t returned yet.

Considering the hotel where they attended the dinner party was closer to the villar than her current place, and he had left at least half an hour before her, he should have been back even if he had to drop Vesta home.

But, if he didn’t leave Vesta’s place immediately after dropping her off, or if he hadn’t planned on coming home, that would be a different story.

Chapter 47

Footsteps echoed from outside. Thorne was back.

“Daddy!”

“Hmm.” Thorne entered and went to the bedside.

Seeing him, Charlene tried to put Jasmine down to make room for Thorne, but Jasmine clung to her, reaching out for her dad.

Thorne came closer and lifted Jasmine into his arms.

Holding Jasmine close, Charlene could catch the familiar scent of his cologne. But mingled with that familiar smell was a light whiff of, women’s perfume. She had caught a whiff of this on Vesta at the dinner bash earlier.

Charlene turned away, rising to put some distance between them, stopping when the scents faded.

Adorned with a sleek watch, Thorne gently touched Jasmine’s forehead with his wrist before he looked at Charlene. “How’s her fever? Did it go down a bit?”

Charlene relayed the doctor’s words. “It’s shifted from a high to a low fever, but it’s still unstable. It might spike again.”

“I see.” Thome sat beside Jasmine on the bed while Jasmine snuggled into his arms, unwilling to leave. But she frowned, “Daddy, your jacket is so stiff.”

Thorne took off his jacket and handed it to Charlene. She caught it reflexively, holding it close until the mixed perfumes hit her, reminding her of their impending divorce.

In the past, holding his jacket would have felt like a cherished moment of happiness she wouldn’t want to let go of.

But then, she casually placed the jacket aside and told Jasmine, “I’ll go make some soup.”

With both parents at home, Jasmine seemed to perk up a bit. Hearing about the soup, she obediently nodded, “Okay, thanks, Mommy.” Charlene smiled and left Jasmine’s room.

Upon watching her leave, Thorne’s gaze fell on the suit jacket she’d left on the chair.

After starting the soup, Charlene began preparing other ingredients. Twenty minutes later, she emerged from the kitchen with clean hands.

Hesitant, Charlene went upstairs.

Turning a corner on the second floor, she saw Thorne at the end of the hallway, on the phone by a window. “Her fever has gone down. No need to worry,” he said.

Was he talking to Vesta? Did Vesta genuinely care about Jasmine?

Charlene withdrew her gaze and entered Jasmine’s room.

Jasmine had fallen asleep after her treatment, sweating profusely. Latonia was gently wiping her down.

Upon seeing Charlene, Latonia moved aside and offered her the towel, assuming Charlene wanted to tend to Jasmine personally. That had always been Charlene’s way. With anything concerning Jasmine and Thorne, she was hands–on.

Charlene shook her head.

Latonia paused but didn’t read too much into it, quietly helping Jasmine change into dry clothes.

Once Latonia finished, Charlene sat on the couch and asked, “Did the doctor leave?”

“Yes.”

“What did the doctor say? Will the fever come back?” She was contemplating whether to stay the night.

“The doctor doesn’t think so.”

“That’s good.”

Since Jasmine was okay, Charlene probably didn’t need to stay overnight.

The soup was still simmering downstairs. After sitting a while, Charlene went down to find Latonia in the kitchen. “I’ll keep an eye on it. You’ve had a long day. Why don’t you sit and rest a bit?”

Chapter 48

Charlene stepped out of the kitchen and immediately saw Thorne lounging on the living room couch, deeply engrossed in the morning paper.

He glanced up momentarily upon seeing her before his attention swiftly returned to the articles before him.

Charlene paused mid-step.

In the past, she would have seized this quiet moment to sit beside him, enjoying his company without disturbing his reading. But then, there seemed to be an unspoken void between them.

With a heavy heart, she turned to head upstairs, and Thorne made no move to stop her.

But Charlene couldn’t help but feel puzzled. She half–expected him to confront her about the incident with Stewart and their supposed unfair treatment of Vesta. But he remained silent.

As Charlene reached the top of the stairs, Jasmine emerged from her room, looking pale and groggy, “Mommy, I’m starving. Is the soup ready?”

“Almost,” Charlene replied, turning to Latonia, “Is it still cooking?”

Latonia chuckled. “All done.”

Feeling relieved, Charlene returned to the kitchen. After a few minutes, she popped her head out to tell Jasmine. “Sweetie, your soup is ready.”

After serving the soup, Charlene noticed Thorne had followed them into the kitchen.

Jasmine looked puzzled. “Mommy, why is there only one bowl? Dad’s eating with us, right?”

Caught off guard, as Charlene hadn’t realized Thorne wanted to eat, Latonia quickly said, “I’ll grab another bowl.”

Charlene didn’t plan on eating herself but always made extra. Given Jasmine’s small appetite, there would be enough for her and Thorne.

As they began to eat, Thorne’s elegance was unmistakable. His long fingers delicately stirred his bowl with a grace that was truly pleasing to the eye,

Jasmine’s eyes erkled with delight after tasting her soup, “It’s been ages. This soup is amazing.”

atonia smiled. “Now that we’re back home, you can have it whenever you want.”

Charlene listened silently, not joining the conversation.

Thome sat across from her, equally silent.

Jasmine, however, was in high spirits. Turning to Charlene, she pleaded, “Mommy, can you sleep with me tonight?” Charlene was about to refuse, but noticing Jasmine’s pale complexion, she agreed, “Okay.”

Jasmine only managed one bowl, and Thorne didn’t eat much either. They left the dining table with the pot of
unfinished soup.

Despite feeling under the weather, Jasmine insisted on bathing to stay clean. Concerned she might catch a chill, Charlene supervised her.

After tucking Jasmine into bed, Charlene hesitated before heading to the master bedroom.

Thorne was nowhere to be seen. She half–expected to find her belongings cleared out.

Upon entering, she found everything as she left it. Her slippers, hand cream, facial moisturizer, and water glass were all in their usual spots as if she had never left.

Entering the walk-in closet, she discovered her items untouched.

Perhaps because they hadn’t finalized their divorce, and to avoid upsetting Irma, Thorne hadn’t moved her things.

With a sigh, Charlene grabbed her pajamas and a towel, leaving the master bedroom for Jasmine’s room.

Jasmine was playing on her tablet when she saw Charlene with her clothes. “Mommy, are you taking a shower in my room?” “Yeah,” Charlene replied.

Shortly after she popped into the bathroom, Thorne headed into Jasmine’s room.

Chapter 49

When he glanced toward the bathroom, Jasmine said, “Mom’s in there taking a shower.”

Thorne nodded and asked, “Did you ask Mommy to come over here to shower?”

Jasmine shook her head. “Nope, she brought her clothes over by herself.”

Thorne didn’t pursue the topic further. After chatting with Jasmine and telling her to get some rest, he turned and left.

Still in the bathroom, Charlene heard some noise and knew Thorne had come by, but she couldn’t hear what they were discussing.

Jasmine hadn’t fully recovered from her sickness, and the medicine made her drowsy. Seeing it getting late, Charlene decided to lie down in bed with Jasmine after her shower.

Jasmine snuggled into her arms, rubbing against her shoulder nook. “Mommy, you smell so nice and feel so soft.”

She felt the softest comfort in her mother’s embrace, even more so than in Vesta’s arms. But knowing Charlene wasn’t fond of Vesta, she kept that thought to herself.

Jasmine fell asleep quickly.

Exhausted herself, Charlene soon drifted off, too.

Since falling ill, Jasmine had a habit of kicking off her blankets. Maybe out of worry, Charlene woke up a few times during the night to tuck Jasmine in, making sure she wouldn’t catch a chill before she could comfortably get some shut-eye.

Charlene didn’t get much rest that night and woke up at dawn. Jasmine was still sleeping as Charlene quietly got out of bed and peered out the window, spotting Thorne jogging below as expected. He usually ran for about an hour before returning.

After getting ready and changing her clothes, Charlene went downstairs to make breakfast.

Half an hour later, she handed off the remaining tasks to Latonia, ensuring Jasmine didn’t have a fever flare–up, before grabbing her purse and car keys and heading out.

Not long after she left, Jasmine woke up and couldn’t find Charlene, asking, “Where’s Mommy?”

Latonia replied, “Mrs. Henderson had to go out.”

Jasmine pouted. “Oh.”

Latonia smiled. “But she made sure your breakfast was ready before she left.”

That lifted Jasmine’s spirits somewhat. Still not fully recovered but feeling hungry, Jasmine freshened up and went downstairs for breakfast.

Shortly after, Thorne came down and also noticed Charlene’s absence. He asked Latonia, “Where’s Mrs. Henderson?”

“Oh, Mrs. Henderson has gone out,” she replied.

Thorne didn’t ask further.

Meanwhile, after returning and grabbing a quick bite, Charlene was about to head to the office when the doorbell rang. She saw her neighbor, Mrs. Sullivan, and her daughter Sally through the door’s camera.

Opening the door, Charlene greeted, “Mrs. Sullivan.”

Mrs. Sullivan looked worried. “Ms. Ross, Sally’s grandmother is sick, and I must take her to the hospital. Could you please drop Sally off at school for me?”

Since Jasmine and Sally’s preschool was on the way to her office, Charlene agreed.

Twenty minutes later, as Charlene was looking for a parking spot near the preschool, she spotted Thorne, Vesta, and Jasmine. Jasmine looked well. She bounced along while holding hands with Vesta, enjoying herself. As for Thorne, he stood beside Vesta, thoughtfully shielding her and Jasmine from the traffic and pedestrians.

Sally also noticed Jasmine. “Charlene, it’s Minnie!”

Charlene smiled softly, “Yes, honey. I see her.”

“Who’s that beautiful lady holding Minnie’s hand? Is she Minnie’s mom, too? Does Minnie have two mommies?” asked Sally.

Chapter 50

Charlene didn’t respond right away. She patted Sally’s head gently and said, “Can you keep it a secret that I brought you here today? Don’t tell Minnie, okay?”

Sally nodded eagerly. “Gotcha.”

The last time she hugged Charlene, Minnie had been all bristly about it. Truth be told, Sally was a bit scared of her and didn’t dare talk to her much. And it seemed Minnie still held a grudge because each time she saw Sally, she would puff up and glare.

Ahead, Thorne, Vesta, and Jasmine looked like the picture-perfect family. Charlene watched them and couldn’t help but think it was beautiful. She shifted her focus away.

After Thorne and Vesta left, Charlene finally exited the car with Sally.

Jasmine’s teacher knew Charlene was Jasmine’s mom.

She saw Jasmine dropped off by her dad and another woman and thought Charlene was busy with something else. But then, seeing Charlene holding Sally’s hand, she was momentarily baffled. “Ms. Ross, you and Sally…”

“Mrs. Sullivan had an emergency and asked me to drop off Sally,” Charlene explained.

Oh, I see,” the teacher sighed in relief and added cautiously, “It’s just that… Jasmine just arrived at school, too, but…”

“I know.” Charlene gave a comforting smile.

The teacher was still confused, but seeing Charlene seemed to be in the know and not bothered, she didn’t press further. Leaving the preschool, Charlene barely got into the car when Stewart called, “What time will you get here?”

“In about ten minutes.”

“Okay.”

When Charlene arrived at PrimeStar, Stewart had been waiting for her at the entrance.

He greeted her with open arms, “Welcome back.”

Charlene smiled and shared a quick hug with him.

Meanwhile, Raleigh was leaning against a window in the company’s hallway and on a call.

He caught sight of the entrance and was instantly captivated by Charlene’s appearance. However, he quickly averted his gaze as Vesta’s call came through.

He chuckled, initiating the conversation, “Vesta, good morning. When will you be arriving at the office?”

Whatever Vesta said changed Raleigh’s expression.

Soon after, Raleigh returned to his desk, and his colleagues noticed he seemed off. “Raleigh, what’s up with you? Are you unwell?” Raleigh shook his head silently.

As people started pouring into the office, someone whispered excitedly, “Did you see? Mr. Ferguson brought a real knockout to the office.”

“Is she that stunning? Don’t pull my leg!”

“She is, truly. She’s radiant, even more gorgeous than a movie star!”

Raleigh’s mind immediately returned to the beautiful woman who had embraced Stewart at the entrance.

Then, another colleague interrupted, “And guess what? I heard she’s joining our company today as a new employee!”

Raleigh paused at this revelation. Vesta was his junior in college. After learning she was interested in working at PrimeStar, he immediately recommended her to Stewart, who seemed quite impressed with her at their first meeting.

It was supposed to be Vesta’s first day. He had called Vesta earlier to ask when she’d arrive, only to hear Stewart had suddenly dropped her for “personal reasons.”

As for what those personal reasons were…

Just as Raleigh was pondering this, Stewart walked in with Charlene by his side.

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