Chapter 356
When he found out he couldn’t be there for Daisy’s birthday, Granger was a bit disappointed but got the picture. “It’s alright,” he said, “work comes first. Daisy will understand.”
After hanging up, Charlene had just finished freshening up when her phone buzzed again.
It was a video call from Granger’s phone. Only Daisy would use Granger’s phone to video call her.
Charlene answered, and Daisy’s face immediately filled the screen. A warm smile spread across Charlene’s face, but before she could speak, Daisy chimed in, “Good morning, Ms. Ross! Uncle told me you can’t make it to my birthday tomorrow. That’s okay. If you’re busy this time, we can celebrate another day!”
Daisy had to head off to school soon, so she continued without waiting for Charlene to respond, “Uncle said you’re baking me a cake and you got me some other gifts too. Thank you, Ms. Ross! Grandma says when someone gives you gifts, you should invite them for dinner. There’s this new restaurant that just opened, and the food is amazing! Are you free tonight? Uncle and I would love to take you out for dinner!”
Charlene chuckled at Daisy’s enthusiasm and replied, “I’m free, Daisy. Thank you for the invitation.”
“No need to thank me, Ms. Ross. It’s only right to treat you to dinner!”
Daisy, eager to get to school, said goodbye before handing the phone back to Granger. Charlene and Granger arranged a dinner time and ended the call.
Once at work, Charlene informed Stewart that she’d need to visit the site again the next morning.
Stewart gave her shoulder a reassuring pat. “You’ve been working hard. I’ll handle things here in the R&D department. Don’t worry.”
“Thanks,” Charlene replied.
Usually, Charlene stayed at the office until after 8 PM. But that afternoon, she started packing up her things a bit after 6 PM.
Gaylord Hearst came by and, seeing her preparing to leave early, raised an eyebrow. “Heading out early today?”
“Yeah, I’ve got something to take care of,” she said, remembering her upcoming trip. “By the way, I’ll be out on a business trip for a few days starting tomorrow. If anything comes up, feel free to reach out to Stewart.”
Gaylord paused, then asked, “Another trip?”
“Yeah.” He didn’t say more, but the thought lingered–she’d just returned and already had to leave again.
Charlene left the office and, about thirty minutes later, arrived at the restaurant Granger had reserved. As she stepped out of her car, Granger and Daisy pulled up.
“Ms. Ross!” Daisy called out, running over to her.
Charlene hugged Daisy, glancing around at the parking lot filled with luxury cars. She turned to Granger, “This place is really popular.”
“The owner did a great job with the marketing. It’s become the go–to spot for networking in the business community.”
“I see,” Charlene nodded.
Granger gestured towards the entrance, “Shall we?”
“Yes, let’s,” Charlene agreed. They headed towards the restaurant, leaving the bustling parking lot behind.
Meanwhile, Vesta, stepping out of her car while on a phone call, ended the call and closed her car door. As she turned towards the restaurant, she spotted Charlene, Granger, and Daisy walking together.
She halted mid–step, momentarily taken aback by the sight.
