No Remarriage: You Don't Deserve Me (Lenora and Zachary)
Stay Away 371

Chapter 371 Must Not Take Hattie Away

Jasmine was taken aback, immediately calling for the driver to bring the car around. Unfortunately, Lenora's car had already driven off into the distance.

She was seated in the back, gazing out at the street view through the window, a wave of restlessness surging within her.

Who would have thought that the Wilkin family actually deceived Lenora into believing she had passed away?

With this in mind, in order to achieve her goal, she had to convince Lenora that she was indeed her mother.

Upon further reflection, Jasmine felt that something was amiss.

If Lenora truly believed that her mother was dead, then when someone she'd had a conflict with suddenly claimed to be her mother, she should have been furious. She would have thought that person was out of their mind instead of calmly stating, "I don't have a mother; my mother died a long time ago."

It seemed as though Lenora had known all along what she was about to say.

Could it be that Lenora had known about her identity all along, which was why she remained so calm?

Reflecting on the gaze Lenora had just given her, Jasmine reckoned that must be the case.

When did Lenora replace out?

Reflecting back, Jasmine remembered their last encounter at the hospital. Lenora's reaction didn't seem feigned - she most likely was unaware at the time.

Following her time in the hospital, Lenora found out in an unexpected turn of events that the woman was her mother. Reflecting on the happenings of that day in the hospital, she couldn't help but feel wronged. This led to her stubborn refusal to acknowledge her out of spite. A slight smile tugged at the corner of Jasmine's lips.

Lenora blamed her for the incident that occurred at the hospital last time, indicating that Lenora still cared about their mother-daughter relationship. If she took the initiative to get closer, Lenora's attitude would surely soften.

In the vehicle, Lenora leaned against the seat back, gazing motionlessly out of the window, lost in thought.

In truth, prior to their unexpected reunion at the hospital, she had gradually come to terms with her feelings toward her mother as she matured.

She once contemplated with an understanding mindset. Even though her mother had given birth to her, she had an unfortunate life and had every right to pursue her own happiness.

However, the situation after their reunion was not as she had imagined it to be.

Lenora reckoned Jasmine must be doing this with an ulterior motive, so Lenora didn't think that the latter would suddenly appear to acknowledge their kinship due to a sudden pang of conscience.

That evening, when she got home, Jasmine tried to call Lenora. No one picked up, so when she tried again, she realized that Lenora had blocked her number.

She used the driver's phone to send a message to Lenora: Nora, it's Mom. I'm sorry. I know you hold resentment toward me for leaving you all these years, for my indifference. But now, I realize I was wrong. I know you've suffered a lot. From now on, I won't leave you again. If you're willing, I can take you back to the Hoffman family. Ezekiel and Uncle Bertram will surely treat you like family.

Lenora speculated that given Jasmine's personality, she wouldn't give up easily.

She had already expected to receive this text message.

Following that, Jasmine sent another message: If you don't want to move to Jeahron, I can buy you a house or a car here in Jacaster or perhaps deposit some money in your account. I heard you recently won a major photography award. I have some connections. I can help you set up a photography studio to pursue your dreams. Also, you've been acting recently, haven't you? Your Uncle Bertram has an entertainment company. If you want to continue acting, they will definitely provide you with the best resources.

With a cold, mocking laugh, Lenora swiftly typed a few words: No need. I've made it through over twenty years without a mother. It's not important. I know there's no such thing as a free lunch in this world. I'm not naive enough to be swayed by your promises. You won't interfere with my life if you truly care for me.

Upon seeing that Lenora was unresponsive to her efforts, Jasmine furrowed her brows, typing another message: Trust me. All I want is to make it up to you. Are you free tomorrow? Can we meet?

However, after clicking send, a striking red exclamation mark appeared next to the message.

This number had also been blocked by Lenora.

A shadow flickered in the depths of Jasmine's eyes.

Since the gentle approach didn't work, the only option left was to play hardball.

The following day, while Lenora was on the film set, she received a call from Harrietta's kindergarten teacher.

The assistant handed over the ringing phone. She glanced at the screen before answering the call.

On the other end of the phone, the teacher said, "Ma'am, a lady has arrived at the school claiming to be Harrietta's grandmother. She wants to take Harrietta with her."

A jolt of panic surged through Lenora's heart. Without hesitation, she declared, "She cannot take Hattie away."

"We know that, but she's currently in the garden and refuses to leave, insisting on seeing you."

Lenora furrowed her brows, remaining silent for a few seconds before saying, "Hand her the phone." "Okay."

A soft rustling sound echoed through the air.

A familiar voice echoed through the receiver. "Nora, you've finally decided to answer my call."

Lenora let out a cold laugh. "Mdm. Lovestone, what exactly are you trying to do?"

"You're my daughter. I just want to make it up to you properly. When are you free so we can meet?"

Lenora knew there was no avoiding this confrontation. Otherwise, Jasmine would not let things rest.

She glanced at the notice on the table and said, "I finish my filming at eight tonight. Why don't you swing by then? But let me be clear. I'm only meeting you this once. Make sure you know exactly what you want to say." "All right," Jasmine responded, "Remove my number from your blacklist. I'll contact you when I arrive."

However, the schedule listed on the notice was merely an estimate based on a normal filming progression and was not entirely accurate.

It was common for actors to struggle to get into character, often resulting in delays.

For instance, on that particular evening, for some reason, the actor who was performing opposite Lenora messed up numerous times. It wasn't until nearly nine o'clock that Lenora wrapped up the day's shooting. Not far from the film set, there was a restaurant that offered private dining rooms.

A number of cast members from various productions would head over to dine after finishing their filming.

Jasmine arrived at the place around eight, having already booked a room. She waited until nine, her patience wearing thin due to the prolonged wait.

If it weren't for her need from Lenora, she really would have liked to just walk away.

Lenora pushed the door open and entered. Her face was still adorned with stage makeup, yet her features couldn't hide a hint of fatigue.

Jasmine switched to a look of concern, standing up and pulling out a chair. "Nora, you must be exhausted. Please, have a seat."

Lenora unceremoniously took a seat, watching as Jasmine reached for the teapot to pour some water. She halted her. "No need for water. Just get straight to the point if you have something to say."

Jasmine paused momentarily but still filled the cup with water and placed it in front of Lenora. She sat down elegantly across from her. "What's the rush? I've ordered food. We can talk while we eat. At the very least, we should head home with a full stomach." As the last word was spoken, the waiter began to serve the dishes.

Jasmine looked at the pale-faced Lenora, took the initiative to warm up her plate with hot water, and said, "I wasn't sure what you like to eat, so I just ordered a few things at random. I heard that this place's venison platter is their signature dish. Do you want to give it a try?" As she spoke, she picked up a piece of venison with her fork and placed it on the plate in front of Lenora. Then, she served her a small bowl of broth. "Have some. It'll warm you up."

Lenora cast a glance at the porcelain bowl in front of her, remaining unfazed. "Stop wasting your time. If you have something to say, spit it out. If not, I'll be on my way." She made a move to stand up and leave.

"Hold on," Jasmine immediately stopped her, sighing. "Nora, since you've put it that way, I'll be straight with you. I hope you and your friend can write a settlement agreement to Howard."