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?”

sad. She did not say

stroked her cheek and kissed it softly. “You don’t have to go through things alone.

found herself lost in Charles’s deep, dark eyes. She fumbled with the fabric of Charles’s shirt, her mouth opening and closing

buckled her in. Once he was in the driver’s seat, he added, “Get some sleep once we’re back.

a small nod, her eyes weary as she gazed at Charles. He reached out and softly caressed her cheek. “Sleep. I’ll

Home?

Noelle, but she shook her head. “I can’t sleep.

“Sure.”