The Cherished Wife

Chapter 53

After hanging up, Charles caught Noelle’s gaze on him. He lounged against the sofa, legs casually crossed, the picture of relaxation. “All done?”

Noelle nodded, stood up, and began to tidy up the dishes. Charles just observed, making no move to assist.

He watched her move about, the angled sunlight streaming through the window, bathing her in a glow that made her seem effortlessly at ease and content.

Charles had always reveled in the quiet of his life. Phoenix Tree Residence had stood empty for years as his own personal haven. Now, with another soul wandering its halls, it did not seem too bad.

He was not exactly put off by this woman’s arrival. Perhaps having her around would spice up his days. Then again…

A shadow flickered across Charles’s eyes, the hint of a smile giving way to something sharper, more guarded.

Ronald was on the ball, zipping back to the Phoenix Tree Residence in less than thirty minutes with company in tow. Charles swung the door open, and Ronald, standing tall, peeked inside. Noelle was lounging in the living room, lost in a TV show, her laughter ringing through the spacious house. It was oddly enchanting.

sliding coolly over Ronald, who quickly looked away. “Mr. Hoffman,

“Come on in, then!”

with a,

one of the famed Four Young Masters of Brookville. They had not expected the Phoenix Tree Residence to be so… different from the rumors. Its refined decor clashed with the icy vibe

the knot with this missy?” one of the older onlookers asked, eyeing Charles and

squinted and

shooting Charles a curious glance before surveying the other three in

of a mystery, though she had pieced together bits from their earlier chat. What really

Charles, “We’re good even though

had your picture taken yet!” She thought to herself, ‘Who does this guy think he is? Oh right, he’s Mr. Hoffman of Brookville. He can probably

getting whatever