Chapter 100

Awesome!" Jasmine skipped upstairs, her mood visibly lifted.

Charlene had just shut down her laptop and was tidying up her things when she stepped out of the master bedroom to find Jasmine hurling herself into her arms, exclaiming, "Mommy!" "Uh-huh," Charlene responded, stroking her daughter's hair but not embracing her in return.

Jasmine, oblivious to her mother's lack of affection, chattered away happily. It was then that Thorne made his way upstairs. As Charlene caught his eye, their gazes locked momentarily. Thorne's expression was unreadable, and Charlene's was equally composed. She turned to Jasmine and suggested, "How about Mrs. Thompson gives you a bath tonight? Mommy has something to discuss with Daddy." Upon hearing this, Thorne paused mid-step.

Jasmine, having had a blast over the past two days, was in high spirits. Though slightly reluctant, she didn't Protest and went off to have Mrs. Thompson help her with her bath.

Charlene, noticing Thorne leaning against the wall and fiddling with his phone, proposed, "Shall we talk in the room?"

"Sure."

Charlene entered the room first and, as Thorne followed, she said, "Could you close the door, please?"