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."

to turn icy instantly. "Stay there. I'm

Noelle could finish, Charles had

feeling a mix of confusion and uncertainty. With Xavier there and Charles on

Xavier's sudden question made Noelle jump,

steps back, eyeing Xavier warily.

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 talking

voice was tight as he grabbed her hand. "Why do you have to be like this? You know how I feel about you. Why are

aching from his grip. "Stop it, Xavier. Let go of me! You made your choice when you chose Winter. You and I