The Cherished Wife

"I thought you just weren't taking things seriously with me, but now I see you don't care about anything at all. You promised to marry Winter, yet here you are telling me you want to back out? Xavier, you're not acting like a man who stands by his word!"

Noelle's eyes were icy as she spoke. "I'm done talking to you. Today is supposed to be you and Winter's big day. You should be at the wedding, not here blocking my way! Step aside!"

Xavier would not budge, and Noelle was at her wit's end. Right then, her phone rang. She stepped back, dug through her purse, and saw it was Charles calling. She hesitated but answered, "Hello!" "Where are you?"

"In the bathroom!" Noelle replied. "What's up?"

"I'm with Grandpa and Granddad. They want to see you," Charles said. "Is someone with you?"

Noelle, realizing how perceptive Charles was, glanced at Xavier, who was still standing there. She felt a wave of annoyance. "Yeah, my brother-in-law."

mood seemed to turn icy instantly. "Stay there.

could finish, Charles had

and uncertainty. With Xavier there and Charles on his way, was a showdown brewing? Considering

line?" Xavier's sudden question made Noelle jump, and she nearly dropped her phone.

a couple of steps back, eyeing Xavier warily. "That's none of

say it's none of my business, Noelle? I'm

"I know you're my brother-in-law. You don't need to keep reminding me. And just because you are, it doesn't mean I have to tell you who I'm

"Why do you have to be like this? You know how I feel about you. Why are you treating me this way? Is there someone

her wrist aching from his grip. "Stop it, Xavier. Let go of me! You