Chapter 148

smine snuggled closer into Charlene's embrace, burying her small face in the warmth of her neck to escape the biting chill of the evening air.

Charlene's coat was soft and cozy, and Jasmine took full advantage of the comfort, rubbing her cheek affectionately against Charlene's neck. Thome was usually punctual, a trait he took quite seriously.

Just as Charlene was carrying Jasmine to the parking lot, Thorne's car rolled in, almost as if on cue. He pulled up right next to them, the car coming to a halt at Charlene's feet. Seeing them, Jasmine didn't make any move to get down; instead, she rolled down the window and, with a playful whine, said to Thorne sitting inside, "Daddy, carry me inside." Without a word, Thorne got out of the car and scooped Jasmine into his arms, her little legs kicking happily.

As Thorne approached, Charlene caught a whiff of his cologne - the distinct scent of Vesta. She hadn't

oticed it when he was sitting next to her earlier.

That meant he had visited the Spencer family after leaving their side.

Thorne looked at her and said, "It's getting cold. Let's head back."