Unknown Divorce Revelation Beyond Time (Charlene and Thorne) novel Chapter 718

The car smoothly rolled away from the facility.

They chatted during the drive, and as they entered city limits, York suggested, "Grab a bite later?"

"No thanks," Charlene declined firmly. "I want to have dinner at home with my family."

It was the answer he expected.

York knew not to push his luck and didn't insist.

After York was dropped off, Charlene finally pulled her phone out of her bag and turned it on.

A flood of missed calls popped up, the vast majority from Jasmine.

She had been so frantically managing Dr. Wagner's tasks on the way to the Base that she'd forgotten to tell Jasmine she was going on a "business trip."

Still, when Jasmine couldn't reach her, she undoubtedly asked the Ross family for updates, so there wasn't much cause for worry.

Even so, seeing all the notifications, Charlene quickly sent a text letting her know she was done with work.

The message had barely gone through when her phone rang. "Mom, you're finally back!" Jasmine exclaimed.

"Yes."

"I missed you so much when I couldn't reach you! Have you eaten? Let's go out for dinner, okay?"

But Charlene declined.

"I just got back, so I want to stay home with Great-Grandma Helena tonight. Let's eat out next time."

"Then I'll go eat at Great-Grandma's place too!" Jasmine declared.

"Alright. Come over," Charlene agreed.

The Ross household was already preparing extra dishes to welcome Charlene back. When they heard Jasmine was joining, Helena and Aunt Maisie exchanged a brief, stiff look.

Jasmine was just a child. They didn't really blame her for cozying up to Vesta.

His eyes scanned her face. "Did you not sleep well? You look like you've lost weight."

"It's just been... busy," she replied evasively.

Gaylord nodded.

Stewart had mentioned she took time off to handle personal matters.

He didn't know the specifics, and part of him wanted to offer his help.

But he also knew that if she really needed assistance, Stewart would step in. She didn't need him.

Since Stewart had advised him not to pester her, he kept his questions to himself. Once Charlene retreated to her office, he headed to the pantry, brewed a fresh cup of coffee, and delivered it to her desk.

"...Thanks," she said.

Stewart, hearing she was back, swung by her office. Catching Gaylord doting on her, he leaned against the doorframe, arched a brow, and let out an exaggerated cough.