Unknown Divorce: Revelation Beyond Time Novel by Miss Lyra (Chapters 71 to 80)

Chapter 71

When the word got out, there was a real stampede toward the front rows. But when folks from the back pushed through, Kenton was ready swarmed by those who had snagged the prime seats early on.

Vesta was among those in the front row, yet she didn’t engage with Kenton. Noticing this and feeling a bit antsy, Laverne waved her over.

Catching the signal, Vesta approached, “Aunt Laverne.”

Understanding Laverne’s intentions without a word, Vesta said, “With all these big shots swarming Mr. Wagner, trying to squeeze in for a chat wouldn’t really do much. Thorne said we could arrange for a one–on–one with Mr. Wagner some other time.”

“That’s right.” Laverne realized her impatience might have been a bit premature.

Thorne was mingling with the high–flyers they usually only read about, and hoping Vesta could expand her network, Laverne nudged her to get back into the mix.

Unfazed, Vesta mentioned, “I’ve met most of them already.”

Thanks to Thorne, these industry titans were quite cordial toward her.

Knowing how much Thorne looked out for Vesta, Laverne relaxed and smiled. “That’s good to hear.”

Still, after chatting with Laverne, Vesta returned to Thorne’s side. Breaking into that crowd wasn’t easy for just anyone. But being known as Thorne’s date, the crowd parted for her effortlessly.

After having their turn with Kenton, the business moguls stopped crowding him but started discussing market trends among themselves.

When Vesta came back, someone in the group teased, “Ms. Hawkins is a real catch, Thorne. You’ve hit the jackpot.”

Despite their lofty statuses, these moguls didn’t judge solely on background. Vesta’s impressive resume, beauty, and poise made her stand out as a remarkable young professional. Their compliments were genuine.

Thorne smiled, and Vesta graciously replied, “Mr. Dale, you flatter me.”

The conversation flowed until Kenton, pressed for time, excused himself to leave.

No one dared to hold him back, knowing the weight of his responsibilities.

As Kenton left, Charlene and Stewart were deep in conversation with tech specialists from various companies, never feeling the need to fight to meet Kenton like the others.

If they wanted to see Kenton, it wasn’t as straightforward as for some, but not impossible. Sure enough, shortly after Kenton left, Stewart received a message and guided Charlene out of the exhibit hall to meet Kenton in the parking lot.

Kenton was on his phone, probably messaging someone, when he looked up at their arrival.

Charlene halted, “Professor Wagner.”

Kenton nodded. With a cold tone, Kenton commented, “I’ve seen your exhibit. It’s decent. But,” his gaze swept over them with a chill, “three years, and this is all you’ve got?”

Chapter 72

Stewart and Charlene felt a chill run down their spine.

Stewart quickly said, “We’re already on that, developing a new product line. We should have some samples ready by next year.” “Uh-huh.” Kenton responded coldly, adding, “Don’t come to see me again until you get it done.”

Charlene and Stewart: “Yes, Professor Wagner.”

Kenton said again, “Send me a review tonight.”

Instantly, Charlene and Stewart realized that by ‘review,‘ their mentor meant a technical summary of today’s exhibition entries.

Charlene and Stewart nodded. “Yes, sir.”

As the conversation concluded, Stewart quickly added, “Professor Wagner, completing it in one night might be challenging.” It wasn’t just challenging, but it was near impossible.

“How about a month?” he ventured, considering the vast array of exhibits and the detailed analysis required, adding to thousands of words. How could they summarize it all in one night?

Kenton didn’t reply but fixed them with a look. Despite his gentle demeanor, Kenton’s gaze was something few could withstand. Stewart instantly straightened up. “Got it. We’ll get it done!”

Charlene was speechless.

At that point, it was clear their conversation with Kenton was over. Then, Kenton turned to Charlene.

Charlene straightened up. “Professor Wagner.”

“What were you thinking?” Kenton gave her a cold glance before turning to leave.

Charlene was stunned.

Stewart explained, “He was talking about your husband.”

Kenton meant, “Look at the partner you’ve chosen!”

Charlene realized it, too. But…

Did they say anything?” asked Charlene.

Earlier, she and Stewart were far from the front row in the conference hall.

Though she saw Thorne and Vesta greeting Kenton after his speech, she couldn’t catch what they had said.

Stewart shook his head. “No idea.”

Charlene was at a loss for words.

Fair enough.

As they were deep in their conversation, they didn’t notice when Vesta and Laverne came out and saw them talking to Kenton.

Watching Kenton’s departing figure, Laverne told Vesta, “Don’t worry. Charlene lacks your expertise. Knowing Kenton does her no good She can’t become his student.”

Vesta smirked, “I know.“.

“Let’s go,” she said.

Charlene and Stewart weren’t planning to leave yet. After all, that was a prime networking opportunity, and going home so soon would be a shame.

After Kenton left, they returned to the exhibition hall. They met Thorne again, but Charlene didn’t approach him, nor did he come over. To everyone else, they seemed like strangers.

Vesta and her group didn’t leave, either. Henley had approached Charlene in a jewelry store, openly expressing his interest. However, despite several encounters, he didn’t come over like last time.

Charlene found it amusing but understood why. After all, Vesta was there, and everyone knew Henley was Vesta’s father. Approaching her could reveal her marital status with Thorne, putting Henley in an awkward position as a father.

Chapter 73

Vesta would be on the verge of being drowned in criticism. It was blatantly obvious how much Henley favored Vesta.

Henley wanted to keep his distance from Charlene at these gatherings, yet he couldn’t resist getting to know Stewart.

So, when Charlene took a break to head to the restroom, Henley came over to Stewart with Vesta and Laverne.

Henley introduced, “Mr. Ferguson, it’s my pleasure to meet you. I’m Henley Hawkins, Vesta and Charlene’s father.”

Stewart shook his hand politely, responding, “Ah, Mr. Hawkins, nice to meet you.”

Henley glanced at Vesta before continuing, “Charlene can get a bit intense sometimes, and there seems to be some miscommunication between her and Vesta. As a dad, I’ve always wished they could get along, but Charlene isn’t having it.”

Stewart had an aha moment. “I see.”

“Yes,” Henley sighed before brightening up again, “But I am thrilled Charlene has met someone promising like you. I heard she’s started working at your company, PrimeStar. Please look out for her for me.”

It sounded like genuine concern. Had Henley not chosen this moment to chat in Charlene’s absence, had he not been so well–informed about Charlene’s past and her relationship with Thorne, Stewart might have believed him.

Put Stewart kept it light, laughing. “You’re too kind, Mr. Hawkins. Charlene is a great asset to PrimeStar.”

Henley and Vesta took Stewart’s words as mere pleasantries. What help could Charlene’s resume offer to someone like Stewart? At best, she might handle some menial tasks. Perhaps similar to what a junior programmer might do.

Of course, Henley kept these thoughts to himself. Vesta didn’t chime in either. Laverne just flashed a casual smile.

Henley continued, “You might already be aware of Vesta’s situation. She’s quite interested in CUAP and does hope to join PrimeStar.” Though Thorne’s arrangements meant Vesta didn’t have to worry about exploring CUAP further, connecting with someone as well–off and influential as Stewart was never a bad move. They might even collaborate closely with PrimeStar.

Stewart turned to Vesta, “Ms. Hawkins, I appreciate your interest. You’re exceptional. It would be a blessing to have you at PrimeStar, but Charlene is a friend.”

Vesta didn’t want to work at PrimeStar anymore. She didn’t want to be on bad terms with Stewart. After all, they might become close colleagues in the future. Making a friend was always better than making an enemy.

Stewart seemed much more approachable than at the previous gathering. Time would tell whether his change in attitude was genuine. They might still become good friends.

Vesta responded, “I understand and won’t press the issue, Mr. Ferguson. There’s no need to worry.”

Stewart smiled. “Thank you for your understanding, Ms. Hawkins.”

From a distance, they seemed to be getting along famously.

When Charlene returned from the restroom and saw them, she hesitated.

Laverne noticed and couldn’t help but smile.

Chapter 74

Sexing Charlene, Veeta maintained a neutral expression as she told Stewart, We’ve got some things to take care of, so we’ll be heading out. Let’s catch up some other time.

Stewart shook their hands, saying, “Sure, next time.

Without giving Charlene another glance, along with Henley, Vesta turned to leave

Given Stewart’s status and reputation, several influential figures had come over to invite him for lunch when it heard noon. And it seemed Thome would be joining them.

Thome’s presence indicated key industry leaders would also be there, probably to discuss future trends in Al.

It was a golden opportunity for Stewart to understand where the market was headed. Moreover, a successful lunch could pave the way for future collaborations.

Stewart was indeed interested. He shot a glance at Charlene, kind of asking for her opinion, not sure if she’d be okay with Thore being there.

Charlene firmly said, “I’m in.”

Once outside, she and Thorne would treat each other as strangers, but that didn’t mean she would avoid him. So, the group, with Charlene and Stewart in tow, went toward Thorne.

Thorne’s expression remained calm as they approached, though Vesta frowned slightly before returning to indifference.

Henley and Laverne joined them, too. Seeing Charlene was part of the group, their expressions soured.

Someone who hadn’t greeted Stewart yet took the opportunity to do so as they approached.

It was Thorne’s turn to shake Stewart’s hand. He said, “Nice to meet you.”

Nice to meet you,” Stewart replied, smiling. “Mr. Henderson, I’ve heard a lot about you.”

“You’re too kind, Mr. Ferguson.”

After exchanging pleasantries, Thorne and Vesta led the way to the parking lot, with Charlene and Stewart following.

Henley and Laverne tried to subtly signal to Charlene, suggesting she shouldn’t join them, but Charlene ignored their hints.

Thorne and Vesta shared a car while Charlene got into Stewart’s.

Unable to dissuade Charlene, Laverne frowned, “That Charlene is…”

The group of over twenty headed to a spacious private dining room and settled around a large round table.

Thorne naturally sat next to Vesta. Laverne had wanted to sit beside Charlene, concerned she might speak out of turn during the meal. However, she was too slow, and Stewart snagged the last seat beside Charlene.

As the group began to chat and order food, Thorne passed the menu to Vesta, inviting her to choose.

Taking the menu, Vesta asked, “What would you like?”

“You decide,” Thorne responded.

Those sitting nearby smiled at the exchange, commenting, “Mr. Henderson and Ms. Hawkins seem close.”

Vesta smiled, selecting a few dishes she knew Thorne would enjoy. Henley and Laverne also smiled, relieved.

Holding a menu, Stewart consulted Charlene on her preferences.

Overhearing the conversation, he glanced towards Thorne and Vesta, then back at Charlene, who seemed indifferent. After a brief discussion, they agreed on a few dishes.

Being Charlene wasn’t causing trouble, Laverne and Henley relaxed a bit.

Noticing their concern for Charlene, Vesta leaned in and whispered reassuringly, ‘Don’t worry. With Thorne here, she won’t cause trouble”

Chapter 75

Charlene would upset Thome if she dared to make a scene. Given her understanding of Charlene and Thorne’s marital dynamics, Charlene wouldn’t dare upset Thorne. After all, getting on Thorne’s bad side again would make him despise her more.

Hearing that, Laverne felt somewhat relieved. But she was worried that Charlene couldn’t handle the jealousy if Thorne were too good to Vesta.

Regardless of what they thought, Charlene didn’t pay special attention to their situation because the person *sitting beside her was Professor Hancock.

Professor Hancock knew Charlene was at the expo and had made a point to greet her earlier.

They had a great chat at a party last time, and he had been looking for a chance to talk to Charlene since then, but they had been too busy.

Since they ran into each other, he didn’t want to miss the chance. So, shortly after sitting down, he started a Conversation with Charlene.

The table was large, and Charlene and Professor Hancock didn’t want to disturb anyone else, so they kept their voices down.

Seeing Professor Hancock speaking amiably nonstop to Charlene over there, Vesta and Laverne assumed Charlene was consulting with him on professional matters and didn’t pay much attention.

The person sitting on the other side of Professor Hancock joked, “Hank, you can’t shake off your professional habits. You’ve been talking all day, and even now, at the dinner table, you can’t stop.”

Another person laughed and added, “Right? Earlier in the exhibition hall, Hank and Ms. Hawkins had chatted for a while.”

When the conversation turned to him, Professor Hancock smiled and didn’t indulge them, saying, “When I try to discuss technical stuff with you guys, you always send me off to your engineers. What, now you’re not used to me not talking to you?”

Someone glanced at Vesta and then at Charlene, saying, “Who would’ve thought today’s young ladies are so interested in Al, coding, and the like? Times have changed.”

“Indeed,” another person joined in. “After Hank talked to Ms. Hawkins at the exhibition, he told me there are more promising talents nowadays, saying our country’s future is bright.”

“Ms. Hawkins is a top talent from a world-renowned university, a promising figure.”

Hearing the compliments, Vesta humbly smiled. “I’m flattered.”

Being a man of high status, Thorne made Vesta, as his woman, more favored by everyone.

As for Charlene, everyone knew she was beautiful but heard she was only an employee at Stewart’s corporation. Despite her ambiguous relationship with Stewart, she had no other backing, so they didn’t pay her much attention.

When the food was on, Vesta served Thorne a slice of steak, and he naturally accepted it.

Then, everyone’s chat got rolling, slowly switching over to talking about the potential future of some of the exhibits at the expo.

Someone couldn’t help but say, “Speaking of which, Mr. Henderson, your autonomous car and Mr. Ferguson’s smart traffic programming language seem to mesh well together. It’s got me all excited. Are you guys not considering a collaboration?”

Chapter 76

Everyone had settled into their seats for dinner for quite a while, but Thorne and Stewart hadn’t exchanged much more than cursory glances.

Hearing so, Thorne casually dabbed the corner of his lips with a napkin, turning his gaze toward Stewart with a smile, “I’ve been pondering it. What do you think, Mr. Ferguson?”

Stewart wasn’t one to miss a business opportunity handed to him on a silver platter. “To earn Mr. Henderson’s esteem is a privilege for PrimeStar.”

If Thorne and Stewart were considering a partnership, Vesta was all for it. After all, a closer relationship between Thorne and Stewart would mean more chances for her to interact with Stewart. That would make it easier for her to sway Stewart to her side when the time came.

With this in mind, she shot Charlene a cold glance.

Charlene was chatting with Professor Hancock about various matters. Though she had kept an eye on the others at the table, she didn’t seem too invested.

She had no objections if Stewart was genuinely interested in working with Thorne. After all, there was no reason to turn away from a lucrative opportunity.

Dinner was winding down, and no one was going to just sit around. Anyone who was keen on discussing possible partnerships would wander over to the couches for a more chill chat.

Thorne’s mention of wanting to collaborate with PrimeStar during dinner was a casual remark. Whether it would materialize into something concrete was unclear to Charlene.

However, Mr. Dale, who was also at the dinner, was keen on collaboration and had pulled Stewart and his management team aside for a chat even before dinner was over.

Charlene followed them. Technical discussions were Charlene’s forte, but negotiations were Stewart’s domain.

Charlene sat quietly to the side, but noticing Stewart’s glass empty, she took it and said, “Let me get you a refill.”

Stewart smiled. “Thanks.”

Seeing Charlene perform what seemed secretarial duties for Stewart only confirmed Vesta and Laverne’s suspicions that Charlene joined PrimeStar to be Stewart’s assistant.

As Charlene turned with the glass in hand, she unexpectedly bumped into someone near Thorne, losing her balance. The next thing everyone knew, she had fallen into Thorne’s arms.

The room went silent. It looked like an accidental stumble to the onlookers, but who could say for sure? It was too convenient that she ended up in Thorne’s arms.

Charlene was undeniably attractive. Her figure was graceful and delicate, and her skin was smooth and soft as cream.

Though Vesta was also stunning, Charlene seemed to hold a slight edge. To be deliberately embraced by such a woman would stir thoughts in many a man’s mind. But Thorne was different.

With an icy vibe, he steadied Charlene by her shoulders then quickly stepped back, not showing a hint of being swept off his feet by her looks.

Realizing she had fallen into Thorne’s embrace, Charlene quickly regained her composure. After softly muttering an apology, she turned and walked away.

Vesta and Laverne were sure Charlene had thrown herself at Thorne on purpose.

Laverne snorted, commenting to Vesta, “See? We can’t trust her!”

“But all her efforts are in vain.”

Thorne’s indifference was a reassurance to them. ̧

Absolutely,” Laverne chuckled, “Thorne’s reaction must be comforting for you.”

Hearing that, Vesta smiled sweetly, lowering her gaze.

Henley frowned, reconsidering his opinion of Charlene. Despite her quiet demeanor, she seemed to have a few tricks up her sleeve.

Chapter 77

Stewart stopped his conversation with Mr. Dale when he noticed something was amiss and made a beeline for Charlene.

“Everything okay?”

Charlene nodded.

“Did you twist your ankle?”

*“A bit.”

Her ankle was indeed sore, likely a sprain. Stewart’s concern was comforting, yet it also brought a tinge of sadness.

She knew the looks she was getting from the people around them. They probably thought she was throwing herself at Thorne, desperate for his attention. Even with her injury, they likely thought she got what she deserved.

As for Thorne, he didn’t even make the effort to help her up, not even a basic “You okay?”

The only person who truly cared about her here was Stewart.

“Let me take a look?”

“It’s fine.”

Many people were around.

Ignoring her protests, Stewart scooped her up and carried her away from the crowd to sit down. He then knelt, slipped off her high heels, and gently lifted her leg to find her ankle swollen. He asked a waiter to call a doctor and fetch a pair of sneakers for Charlene.

Seeing Stewart so openly caring for Charlene stunned many. Suddenly, it seemed to many that the gossip of Charlene throwing herself at Thorne was perhaps a misunderstanding. After all, she and Stewart seemed genuinely close.

Vesta bit her lip, diverting her gaze. Then, she looked at Thorne.

Though aware of the intimate interaction between Charlene and Stewart, Thorne continued chatting with others nonchalantly.

Watching how much Thorne seemed indifferent to Charlene and Stewart’s closeness, Vesta’s lips relaxed into a smile. And she also continued her conversation with the others, no longer paying attention to Charlene.

Before long, the doctor on call came by. After taking a look at Charlene, he prescribed some cream for the pain. Once the doctor left, Stewart applied the ointment to Charlene. Charlene tried to take over, but Stewart gave her a look, saying, “Let me handle this,” and she relented.

After applying the ointment, the waiter returned with the sneakers for Charlene.

Charlene stood up, testing her foot. “It’s not too bad. I can walk.”

“That’s good.”

However, given her condition, Stewart suggested she skip the gallery visit in the evening. He had asked someone to take photos of the exhibits so she could review them later through a video recap.

Though disappointed, Charlene understood the situation. Stewart excused themselves to the others before taking Charlene home.

After they left, the rest of the group also started to disperse.

After Stewart dropped Charlene off at her place, he had to leave for another commitment.

Exhausted from the day’s events, Charlene wanted to rest before catching up with Stewart later about the “homework” their professor had assigned.

As she was about to drift off, her phone rang.

Picking it up, she saw an unfamiliar number.

Hesitantly, she answered, “Hello, who’s this?”

“Granger.”

Charlene sat up, surprised, “Mr. Harden?”

She had been so busy that she’d almost forgotten about the morning’s incident.

“Your car’s been taken care of on my end. You can come pick it up later,” Granger said before Charlene could respond further. “If you’re busy, I can have someone drive it back to you.”

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 on the other end.

Charlene asked, “Mr. Harden?”

“Fine, I’ll send you the contact details for the garage shortly.”

“Thanks, appreciate it.”

Granger didn’t respond, simply ending the call.

With her foot injured, Charlene couldn’t pick up her car. After some thought, she decided to ask Stewart for help.

Stewart agreed to bring her car back once he finished his commitments.

That evening, after ordering pizza for dinner, Charlene received a call from Jasmine, inquiring when she’d come home.

Charlene explained straightforwardly, “Sweetie, I sprained my ankle, and it’s difficult to walk, so I’m staying out to recover. You should head to bed early.”

Jasmine was immediately worried when she heard about the injury. “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 by Charlene’s words, Jasmine still wanted to ensure she was okay, “So, where are you staying? We’ll find time to visit you tomorrow when Dad gets home.”

Charlene quickly dismissed the idea. “No need. I can take care of myself. Just focus on your studies.”

“Okay then…”

After a bit more chatting, they ended the call.

Later, Thorne returned home.

Upon seeing him, Jasmine said, “Dad,” and before Thorne could even respond, she hurriedly added, “Dad, Mommy hurt her ankle and is currently recuperating outside!”

Thorne acknowledged with a “Hmm.” He took off his high–quality suit jacket, handed it to the housekeeper, and mentioned, “I know.”

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

Settling down and accepting a glass of water from Latonia, Thorne replied, “No, but I saw it with my own eyes.

“Saw it?” Jasmine paused, “You were there when Mommy got hurt?”

“Yes.”

Jasmine seemed to remember something, “Oh, right, Mommy works at Dad’s company, so Dad saw it when she got hurt, right?”

“Not exactly,” Thorne’s tone was indifferent. “Mom doesn’t work at my company anymore.”

“What?” Jasmine looked up, puzzled, “So, where does Mommy work now?”

“At a place she likes.”

After finishing his water, Thorne stood up, ruffled Jasmine’s hair, and advised, “Get some rest early.”

Jasmine acknowledged, “Okay.”

Around 8 pm, Stewart returned with Charlene’s car.

While taking over the keys, Charlene asked, “How much was the repair bill?”

She implied she wanted to reimburse him.

*Taking a seat 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 me for payment. The workers let me take the car when they heard it was yours.”

Charlene paused, realizing.

So, had Granger taken care of the bill on her behalf? That was unexpected.

“What’s wrong?” Stewart noticed her changed 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!”

By homework, he meant the exhibition review assignment Kenton had given them that morning. “Sure,” Charlene agreed but added, “Let me make a quick call.”

“Alright.”

Charlene casually dialed Granger.

He answered almost instantly, “Hello?”

“Mr. Harden, it’s me, Charlene.”

Granger: “I know. What’s up?”

Charlene went straight to the point. “About the car, I’ve got it back. Did you cover the repair expenses? If so, how much was it? I’ll transfer the money to you now.”

Chapter 79

Granger fell silent and said, “I’ll shoot you the account details.”

“Thank you,” Charlene replied politely, “and sorry for bothering you. Also, I appreciate what you did today.”

Granger responded casually, “No worries,” before hanging up first.

Stewart, listening in, asked, “The guy who fixed your car today?”

By then, Granger had sent his bank details with a photo of the car repair bill.

Charlene glanced at it briefly, opened her mobile payment app, and said, “Yeah.”

From the tone of Charlene’s conversation with Granger, Stewart could tell she and Granger weren’t close.

He knew Granger, no doubt, and knew that Charlene knew him, too. But as far as he was aware, Charlene and Granger didn’t really get along that well. So, despite Charlene referring to the person on the other end as Mr. Harden, it never crossed Stewart’s mind that she was chatting with Granger.

Charlene transferred the exact amount to Granger without hesitation.

Afterward, she sent a thank–you note. Then, she and Stewart got down to the “homework” Kenton had assigned them.

They created a PowerPoint presentation and summarized the core technologies of all the exhibits they’d seen.

Still, given the number of exhibits, when they finished and sent the content to Kenton, it was already past 2 a.m.

Stewart was exhausted but had no change of clothes, so Charlene didn’t offer him to stay over.

After Stewart left, limping from her injury, Charlene went to take a shower before heading to bed.

Her foot wasn’t seriously injured, but Stewart had hoped she would take a few days off to rest before returning to work.

When Charlene woke up the following day, she decided to work from home and didn’t go out.

Not long after getting up, she received a call from Jasmine. “Mommy, is your foot feeling any better?”

Testing her foot, Charlene replied while making breakfast in the kitchen, “Yeah, a bit better.”

“That’s good,” Jasmine, also having breakfast, didn’t seem to know what to say next.

Charlene could tell. It hadn’t always been like this. Jasmine used to have endless stories to share with her. Bu their communication had dwindled over the last two years. Whenever Jasmine had something to say, she’d first go to Vesta, gradually leaving fewer and fewer words for their mother–daughter conversations.

Jasmine seemed concerned about her injury, but superficially. The concern was genuine but not overly so. In the past, any minor injury or even a cold would have Jasmine cry with worry, cling to her non–stop, comfort: her, and refuse to leave her side, eager to care for her. She was a little ray of sunshine then.

But somehow, Jasmine had shifted that warmth over to Vesta without Charlene even noticing.

Like the last time Vesta was sick, Jasmine had rushed to check on her right after breakfast, secretly texting Vesta behind Charlene’s back, and immediately after school, had her driver take her to see Vesta.

So, if Jasmine was worried about her, she could have insisted on getting her address the night before and had the driver take her over. But she didn’t come.

At a loss for words with Charlene, Jasmine turned to Thorne, sitting across from her at breakfast, and asked, “Dad, do you want to talk to Mommy on the phone?”

Chapter 80

Hearing Jasmine’s words, Charlene suddenly snapped back to reality.

Just the day before, she had fallen, and he hadn’t bothered to help her stand up. She was injured, but he acted as if it was none of his business,

His indifference could only mean he didn’t care about her, or perhaps he was worried about upsetting Vesta.

Vesta’s thoughts and feelings must be paramount to him, right?

Whether she lived or died seemed utterly inconsequential to him. Otherwise, why would he have reacted so indifferently to her fall and injury?

While thinking this, Charlene’s expression turned cold, and Thorne beat her to it as she was about to decline the call.

“Ask your mom.”

Upon hearing that, Jasmine asked Charlene, “Mommy, Dad’s asking if you want to talk to him over the phone.”

Charlene pursed her lips and stated plainly, “No need. Mommy’s busy.”

“Oh…” Jasmine told Thorne, “Dad, Mommy said no.”

Thorne acknowledged, “Hmm.”

Jasmine then said, “Well, Mommy, goodbye.”

“Yep, goodbye.”

After hanging up, Jasmine put down the phone, looked at Thorne, and mentioned, “Dad, Mommy seems mad.”

She wasn’t sure why, but she just had a feeling all of a sudden.

Thorne responded indifferently, “Is that so?”

“Yeah.”

“Hmm.”

And that was the end of that conversation.

Over the next few days, Charlene worked from home.

Jasmine called daily to check on her injury, confirming Charlene’s suspicion that she wouldn’t suggest visiting.

The “homework” Charlene and Stewart submitted to Kenton received feedback within two days. The core technical content they discussed, which others would consider confidential, got dismissed as worthless by Kenton.

Thus, for the following few days, Charlene and Stewart spent much time revising their “homework” based on Kenton’s comments alongside their regular work.

By Monday, Charlene’s foot was mostly better. She still wasn’t driving, but she could make it to the office for work.

Upon her arrival, Stewart shared, “Thorne seems genuinely interested in partnering with us.”

Thorne hadn’t visited personally but had sent someone to contact them the week before. Stewart feared it might upset Charlene and had kept it from her.

Someone from Thorne’s side was to visit again soon, and if the discussion went well, they could finalize a preliminary collaboration plan.

Quincy, the technical director sent by Thorne from his tech company but not an employee of the Henderson Group, met Charlene for the first time.

Upon learning that Charlene was also in tech, he greeted her courteously, “Ms. Ross, nice to meet your

Charlene responded, “Nice to meet you, too.”

The subsequent exchange was pleasant.

By noon, playing host, PrimeStar invited a few individuals from Thorne’s company for lunch.

As they arrived at the restaurant and left the car, they saw Thorne and Vesta exiting their vehicle.

Seeing them, Charlene hesitated.

Stewart rubbed his forehead, startled by how things had strangely lined up.

However, Quincy brightened up and called out, “Mr. Henderson!”

Thorne and Vesta turned around.

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