A little while later, Vesta, Dalton, and the others emerged from the restroom.

Jasmine was at that age where curiosity seemed to be her constant companion. Everything along their path piqued her interest. She’d dart over here, glance over there, and keep up a stream of chatter with Vesta, who responded with a constant, warm smile. Dalton watched the interaction and appreciated Vesta’s dedication to Thorne’s child. It dawned on him just how challenging looking after a kid could be.

When they returned to the coffee shop, Dalton’s eyes immediately sought out Thorne. He spotted him lounging comfortably, sipping his coffee and flipping through a magazine, the picture of relaxation.

Dalton paused, taking in the easygoing demeanor. Earlier, as they were heading to the restroom, he had mentioned that he was meeting a friend at the café.

As they entered, Vesta asked, “Did your friend arrive yet?”

Dalton shook his head. “Not yet.”

“Why not come sit with us for a bit?” Vesta suggested.

“You guys are on a date. I wouldn’t want to intrude.”

Vesta laughed gently. “It’s fine. Thorne won’t mind.”

Dalton joined Vesta and Jasmine as they walked over to Thorne’s table. As they approached, Dalton noticed a striking bouquet of red roses beside Thorne’s seat.

It was clear Thorne had given them to Vesta, suggesting that perhaps Thorne wasn’t as indifferent as Dalton had first assumed.

“Daddy, we’re back!” Jasmine announced as she quickly returned to her seat.

Thorne acknowledged with a nod, turning to Vesta, only then noticing Dalton. “Mr. Ramirez?” he greeted.

Dalton replied, “Ran into Ms. Hawkins at the entrance and saw you here, so I thought I’d come over and say hi

Thorne shook hands with him, and after a bit of small talk, Dalton observed the three of them seemed to gel well together. He decided not to impose further and said, “My friend should be here any minute. I’ll catch you next time.” Thorne didn’t insist, simply nodding. “Alright.”

Dalton gave Vesta a quick look before finding a seat not too far from them. He couldn’t hear their conversation from where he sat.

After about twenty minutes, it seemed Thorne and the others were preparing to leave. Thorne came over to say goodbye.

Dalton asked, “Heading out?”

“Yeah,” Thorne replied, “See you next time.”

Thorne left, but Vesta and Jasmine lingered. Dalton asked, “You’re not leaving with them?”

Vesta smiled, “Thorne’s bringing the car around from the underground parking.”

The parking garage was quite extensive, but the street was just nearby. Thorne’s offer to pick them up was indeed a considerate gesture. Dalton returned the smile. Vesta then asked, “Did your friend ever show up?”

Dalton shook his head, “Nope.”

Vesta lowered her eyes, a knowing look passing through them but choosing not to mention it. “So, are you going to keep waiting?” Dalton replied, “Nah, I think I’m done.”

They chatted for a bit longer until Thorne called Vesta to let her know he was ready.

Vesta said, “Time for us to go.”

Dalton nodded, “Take care.”

Outside the café, as Vesta and Dalton were saying their goodbyes, Jasmine suddenly tugged at Vesta’s hand, her eyes wide as she looked off to the side.

“Minnie?” she exclaimed, convinced she had spotted Charlene. But with the crowd bustling around, her small stature made it impossible to keep sight of her mom. “Ms. Hawkins, I think I really saw-” Jasmine started, but Vesta gently interrupted, “Your dad’s waiting. Let’s go.”