The Cherished Wife

The kiss lasted forever. Noelle had been nervous and careful, but Charles guided her, and in that moment, Noelle felt like she truly belonged in his arms. She wrapped her arms around Charles’s neck, pressed her forehead against his, and took slow breaths. (1)

They kissed for quite a while. Afterward, Charles got out of the car and gently fixed Noelle’s messy hair, smiling slightly as he pulled her close.

She rested her hands on his chest, listening to his strong heartbeat. She felt her face warm up.

Charles just held her, his arms making her feel safe and warm.

He did not say anything and did not ask any questions. He just held her. After what seemed like forever, Noelle looked up at him. She noticed his lip was hurt and touched it gently. “Are you okay?”

Charles looked at her with soft eyes and a small smile. He held her hand and shook his head. “I’m fine.” Noelle gave him a small smile. “Why aren’t you asking me what happened?”

He shook his head and hugged her again. “You’ll tell me when you’re ready.” He did not need to know everything right now. However, he then gently touched the faint mark on Noelle’s cheek. “Did they hurt. you?”

up, remembering something sad. She did not say

don’t have to go through things alone. Remember, I’m here

looked up and found herself lost in Charles’s deep, dark eyes. She fumbled with the fabric of Charles’s shirt, her mouth opening and closing without a word, until she

he opened the car door for Noelle and buckled her in. Once he was in the driver’s seat, he

weary as she gazed at Charles. He reached out and softly caressed her cheek. “Sleep. I’ll wake you when

Home?

shiver ran through Noelle, but she shook her head. “I can’t

“Sure.”