The Cherished Wife

Noelle stayed in the restroom for a while longer before she finally decided to leave.

When she returned to the banquet hall, most of the guests had already gone through at least one round of drinks.

Winter seemed to be in high spirits, moving around to entertain everyone. The women were clustered in groups, chatting about fashion and gossip, while the men discussed business or entertainment venues. As soon as Noelle walked back in, Winter's gaze immediately fixed on her. Winter glanced over at Annie, who gave her a subtle nod of confirmation.

With that, Winter felt reassured and walked over to Noelle. "Noelle, where did you go? I thought you might have left early!"

"How could I? It's your birthday. I wouldn't leave before you cut the cake," Noelle responded, casually glancing around the room.

Sure enough, she saw Suzy engaged in conversation with Simon, who was watching her with that same unreadable expression.

Noelle felt uneasy under Simon's intense gaze and quickly looked away. "Where's my brother-in-law? It's your birthday. He should be here celebrating with you," Noelle remarked, her tone laced with subtle insinuation. Winter's smile faltered slightly, but she quickly recovered while forcing a smile. "Xavier is still busy at work. You know how it is with him taking over Frotconn; there's a lot on his plate!"

must be very busy to miss your birthday," Noelle replied, her words

drinks. She waved them over. "Noelle, we haven't had a drink together yet. Let's share one now!" "Sure!" Noelle caught a subtle signal from Annie,

barely concealed as she watched Noelle take the

my birthday today, let's put all our past

good care of you too, Winter," Noelle replied with a forced smile as they clinked their

Noelle drink the

forgiving me for

'I'll treat you well as I watch you fall into

company, chatting. away. She watched as Simon finished the drink that had been drugged

seem to hold your alcohol well too, Ms. Atherton. You've had quite a few, yet

York, you're too kind," Suzy replied. There was a slight blush creeping up her cheeks. She felt her heart flutter inexplicably as