The Cherished Wife

"Do you like it?"

Noelle caught Charles's eye. He was as silent as a statue, which made her heart race a little. She glanced down at her outfit, feeling out of place. She had never worn anything like this before, and she was pretty sure she had never seen these clothes in any period drama before. However, the intense spark in Charles's gaze immediately washed away her worries. She gave a small, hopeful smile. "How do I look?"

"You look amazing!" Charles whispered, his voice low but filled with warmth. He chuckled and reached out to straighten her outfit. "Head on out. I'll be right behind you!"

"Got it!"

Stepping out, Noelle spotted Sean and Peter, already decked out in their new gear. They looked like they had stepped out of a different era. They looked so cool that Noelle nearly forgot Sean's usual goofball antics. Blinking in surprise, Noelle greeted them with a bright, "Hey Peter, Mr. Smith!"

first-name basis with Peter, yet I get the 'Mr. Smith' treatment? That's cold. We've known each other way longer!" "Should I just call you Sean, then?" Noelle laughed, caught off guard by his

her eyes off us just now. If Charles saw that, he'd be green with

to mean, Charles? Am I not cool or popular enough? Even if Noelle isn't into me, what

the jab, raised

you're really asking

contrasted Charles's brooding tone. Noelle glanced up at Peter, sensing there was more to

leading her away. "Ignore them. They're always like this. How about we go choose

but steal glances at him. She was right-he looked amazing. His attire clung to him perfectly,

made everything he wore look effortlessly stylish. He could