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..."