The Cherished Wife

A warmth spread through Noelle’s chest, though she tried to sound annoyed. “Really, what will people think, seeing me in here like this?”

“It’s either the cart or the hospital. Take your pick!” Charles challenged her with a choice.

Noelle’s mouth opened, but no words came out. She chose to remain silent.

Sometimes Charles could be so overbearing, Noelle thought. However, in a strange way, his assertiveness was kind of endearing.

Noelle knew Charles was only fussing over her because of her sprained ankle, and she realized that not every guy would be so thoughtful. She bit her lip and sat still in the shopping cart, twiddling her fingers. She was grateful, indeed, but she was also an adult, and being carted around by Charles was just plain

weird.

of Noelle’s sight, Charles let a smile creep into his eyes, a fond grin that made everyone else around wish they had someone to look at

some groceries with the other, Charles noticed Noelle giving herself a little pep talk before she

lot, we still have a few things to pick up,” Charles replied, glancing down at her. Noelle, all curled up inside the cart with those big, doe eyes staring back at him, brought back memories

from Brookville, however, he could not take the dog with him, and he later found out it had grown old and

yet Noelle caught the shift in his mood and chose to stay quiet,

playfully, Charles reached out and ruffled

did to my hair!” She shot him an annoyed look; however, her irritation quickly turned to alarm.

#1

with the shopping cart, darting across the walkway. Everyone