I Stopped Waiting and Started Loving novel Chapter 266

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Meanwhile, following the GPS, Bonnie Hayes arrived at Thorne Manor.

Her car cruised down a tranquil, tree-lined avenue until a high, pale stone wall gradually came into view. The gatehouse wasn't overly ostentatious, but it exuded an undeniable air of grandeur. The heavy, elegant plaque reading 'Thorne Manor' made it clear this was no ordinary private residence.

Bonnie looked up at the sign, a flash of surprise in her eyes.

"Is Thorne Manor connected to the Serene Gardens Retirement Estate?"

Not only were the names linked, but the two locations were practically adjacent.

Serene Gardens sat closer to the peaceful, expansive outskirts of the city, while Thorne Manor was tucked right behind it, angling slightly closer to the urban center. If the navigation hadn't guided her here, she never would have guessed this hidden sanctuary existed.

Quentin Vance's tone was casual. "They are both Master Thorne's properties."

Bonnie gasped, rendered momentarily speechless.

She knew exactly how exclusive Serene Gardens was—virtually every resident was a retired dignitary or someone of significant standing. She had never imagined that the prestigious estate was her master's personal enterprise.

No wonder Master Thorne lived such a reclusive life, yet seemed to know every single thing that happened at the retirement home.

It also explained why, every time she went to treat the elderly residents, Master Thorne would silently appear right behind her the moment she turned around.

It all made perfect sense now.

The two of them stepped out of the car.

Bonnie wore a pristine, modern vintage-inspired outfit—a pale apricot blouse with delicate traditional fastenings, paired with an elegant, dark emerald skirt. Her hair was swept into a low bun, secured simply with a wooden hairpin.

Quentin was dressed a bit more formally than usual. Though the summer heat kept him from wearing a suit jacket, a dark tie rested perfectly against his crisp white shirt, giving him an aura of cold, untouchable nobility.

Staff from the manor immediately came out to greet them, smoothly retrieving Bonnie's Apprenticeship Gifts from the trunk.

It was a substantial haul: ten strips of artisanal cured meats, a rare aged wild ginseng, an antique calligraphy set, and a box of premium estate tea.