Divorce Time

Chapter 38

The news stirred a wave of reactions in the room, with expressions as varied as a patchwork quilt.

Rumors had swirled around Thorne for years, suggesting he’d tied the knot in a secret ceremony. Yet, the identity of the elusive Mrs. Henderson remained a puzzle no one could solve.

Some whispered that Thorne had never married at all. The truth of the matter was murky, and most were too timid to probe further.

So, when Thome casually mentioned having a daughter, the revelation left many slack–jawed with surprise. Yet, curiosity was quickly gone, replaced by a respectful silence.

After dinner, Jasmine was on pins and needles. She had been waiting for Charlene to come home. But by nine o’clock, with her bath taken, Charlene was nowhere to be seen.

Jasmine’s ears were on any sound from outside.

Just past ten, the hum of a car engine sparked hope, and she dashed downstairs, calling out, “Mommy-” Her voice cut off abruptly as Thorne stepped inside, her excitement deflated. “Daddy?”

Thorne handed his coat to the housekeeper, noting his daughter’s disappointed expression. “What’s wrong?”

I thought it was Mommy coming back.”

Thorne didn’t let the sting of “absent mom, forgotten dad” bother him, pausing before saying, “She hasn’t returned yet?”

“No…”

Not overly concerned, Thorne reassured her, “She’s probably caught up with something. Didn’t she promise to drive you to school tomorrow? Get to bed early, and you’ll see her in the morning.”

spirits

Thorne retreated to his study to wrap up some work. By the time he finished, it was nearly midnight.

But when he returned to their room, he found it

come home.

the Ross family was indeed in trouble. With that thought,

her school run duty, Charlene rose early.

her way, driving

community, a brief sense of disorientation hit her. She had lived there for nearly seven years. But after just a three–week absence, it felt like a lifetime

changed, Charlene

her warmly,

didn’t correct him, asking, “Is Minnie awake yet?”

got up,

Charlene asked Latonia, the maid, to nudge Minnie along.

offered, “Have you had breakfast, Mrs. Henderson? It’s ready

Charlene declined. “No, thank

“Alright then.”

Thorne descended the stairs, Charlene acknowledged him with a nod to

bounded down the

her hair affectionately. “We should hurry. Breakfast is waiting.”

her mother, her cozy scent filling the air as she snuggled close. “Mommy, stay With