Divorce Time

Chapter 65

The next day, Charlene woke up to a sunny morning, grabbed a breakfast of toast and scrambled eggs, and headed to work as usual.

At lunch, she was halfway through her sandwich when her phone rang. It was Jasmine, calling for the first time since she had snuck away from Sapphire Springs Resort.

Charlene answered, “Hey, sweetie.”

“Hi, Mommy.” Jasmine’s voice came through, light and a bit cautious.

“Eaten yet?”

“Just did!”

Jasmine received Vesta’s call that morning at Sapphire Springs Resort. Vesta said Thorne had taken her out for fun and asked if she wanted to join. Without a second thought and without letting Charlene know, she dashed off.

before. This morning, back at school and feeling guilty, Jasmine

casually ask about her meal made it sound like she wasn’t mad about her sneaky exit, which made Jasmine feel relieved. She knew Charlene couldn’t stay mad at her!

behavior – fewer daily calls and less prying into her whereabouts. Jasmine appreciated the newfound freedom.

didn’t ask about the past two days. She

hung up and returned to her desk when Stewart approached. “The Future Tech Expo

good,” Charlene agreed.

home, Charlene’s car broke down, causing a fender bender that escalated into a traffic nightmare. Amidst the honking and frustrations, Charlene apologized to the other drivers and called for roadside assistance, worried about making it to the expo

figure crossed the

voice was

explained her situation. She had informed Stewart, who suggested waiting for a company–arranged pickup,

minutes later, sitting awkwardly apart in the backseat.

which

from the awkward silence. Eventually, they arrived at the expo, and Charlene thanked Granger