Chapter 285
Given the current situation, it’s likely that Jasmine will be spending New Year with the Henderson family.
Helena felt a twinge of sadness at the thought of Jasmine being away and also felt sorry for Charlene.
Charlene, however, remained composed and reassured Helena, saying, “Grandma, I’m alright. As long as Minnie is happy, that’s what matters.”
Helena suspected Charlene was just putting on a brave face to keep her from worrying.
With a quiet sigh, Helena decided not to press the matter further
After breakfast, Charlene and Maisie headed out to do some last–minute New Year shopping.
The shopping district was decked out with festive lights, and familiar carols filled the air, creating a strong holiday spirit.
Maisie and the others had already done a round of shopping, so this trip was more about tying up loose ends.
Children on the street were already donning festive sweaters and holding adorable little Santa lanterns.
Charlene paused, watching a little girl skipping along the street. It reminded her of the New Year outfits she used to buy for Jasmine before she left with Thorne overseas.
Jasmine used to adore those outfits and the little lanterns.
Before, the lanterns were Jasmine’s favorite toys. She could spend hours playing with them, watching the candlelight dance inside.
But that was two years ago.
Since Jasmine left, she spent one New Year abroad with Thorne.
Last year, she returned home. But she no longer took joy in these festive traditions. She found them tacky and refused to wear the clothes.
Charlene didn’t force her. She tried picking out different things, but Jasmine wasn’t interested.
At first, Charlene thought it was a matter of taste, but eventually realized Jasmine simply didn’t want to wear anything she bought.
Charlene shook off the memories and caught up with Helena and Maisie.
When Carl and Nadine learned Charlene and Maisie were out shopping, they secretly messaged her, asking her to pick up some fireworks for New Year’s Eve so they could set them off in the garden.
Charlene read the message, smiled, and replied, “Sure.”
Throughout her marriage to Thorne, he was rarely at Starfall, even during holidays.
Still, after marrying him, she always went back to Henderson Mansion with Jasmine for New Year, even if Thorne wasn’t there.
Reflecting on it, she realized it had been seven years since she last celebrated New Year at the Ross family
home.
As she put her phone away, ready to buy some fireworks, it suddenly rang.
It was Stewart calling.
He mentioned he’d purchased a lot of fancy fireworks and offered to send some her way.
Charlene didn’t stand on ceremony and said, “Thanks, Stewart.”
From the sounds of it, Stewart was planning to send plenty, so she decided not to buy any more.
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Chapter 288
After finishing their shopping and returning home, Charlene’s phone buzzed again.
This time, it was Granger calling.
Charlene paused and answered, “Mr. Harden.”
“I ordered a small batch of fireworks recently, and Daisy suggested I send some your way. Can you send me your address? I’ll have them delivered.”
Charlene hesitated, instinctively refusing, “Mr. Harden, that’s not necessary-”
“Well, then you can call Daisy and tell her that?”
She paused for a moment before saying, “Please thank Daisy for me.”
