The days ticked by, and it wasn't just Stewart and York waiting for Charlene's

divorce-Granger was counting down, too.

Granger, in fact, knew the exact date: Thursday. That was when Charlene and

Thorne were supposed to sign their divorce papers.

He'd been traveling for work a lot lately, hardly ever in town. But this week, he

made a point of catching the red-eye back, arriving home in the early hours of

Thursday morning. After a few hours' rest, sometime after ten, he tried to distract

himself with work. But eventually, impatience got the better of him, and he dialed

Moran Albright's number.

"It's been a while since I've caught up with you and Thorne," Granger said, aiming

for casual. "How about lunch today? Let's invite Thorne too."

Moran replied, "I'm free, but Thorne can't make it. He's overseas on business-

left a few days ago and still hasn't come back."

A knot formed in Granger's chest. "Thorne's... out of the country?"

So, they hadn't gone through with the divorce today after all?

Granger had kept his distance from Thorne and the rest lately. He'd called Moran

partly to fish for news about the divorce. If it was finalized, maybe today would be

his chance-

hadn't gone as

Thorne's coming

in the whole

shrugged it off. "No clue. You know how hectic

how long he'll be

stared down at his

Charlene's number

might finally be the day he could call her. But

wait a little longer.

days always seemed to

was at work when

Thorne out of town, Jasmine wanted to

with her.

Charlene turned her down.

Thorne had

a few days

away on

assumed he'd be

but another week

there was no sign

him.

few days alone

after school let out

restless. By Wednesday,

again: "Mom,

gone for ages. I don't like

Can I

with you?"

in her daughter's voice made Charlene's

come home right after work. For now, go stay

your grandma, okay?"

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255