The Cherished Wife

Chapter 34

“Mr. Hoffman sends his best to Sir Shaw. He wishes him all the happiness of the endless oceans and a life as enduring as the ancient mountains.”

Joseph could butter anybody up. Spotting Charles, he could not resist the chance to strut his stuff in front of the crowd. He shot Xavier a look and sidled over. “Mr. Hoffman! Xavier, aren’t you gonna say hi? Your uncle’s here because of you!”

“Uncle, you’re here too!”

Xavier might have been stewing on the inside; however, in front of Charles, he had to swallow his pride. After all, Charles was a big deal, and showing up here was a big honor….

Once Joseph spilled the beans, the dots connected for everyone. Xavier was Charles‘ nephew, and it looked like Joseph had the mighty Hoffman family in his corner.

Charles squinted, a sly grin playing on his lips. It was a grin that said more than words could. His gaze fixed on Xavier with such intensity that Xavier felt a shiver run through him. Standing there with Charles, he was hit with a wave of intimidation.

The room fell silent as Charles entered, his eyes twinkling with a distant amusement that left. everyone too intimidated to guess at what he was thinking.

the silence. “Mr. Shaw, aren’t you curious about

wondering what he was playing at. She caught Samuel’s eye, and he gave her an encouraging nod. “Noelle, since Mr. Hoffman was kind enough to bring a gift, let’s

on the fact that Charles was no ordinary guest, especially since he did not

bite of her lip, Noelle unwrapped

Sar

OVE

his face lit up with delight as he ran his fingers contents of the box. “Wow, this is a chessboard from the 18th century, carved

manowany!”

and he could tell

with curiosity, everyone stretching to get a better look. Only those near the door, like Xavier and his friends, could see the

She had not expected Charles to