The Cherished Wife

Having gained no advantage from her visit to Charles, Clarisse returned directly to the Hoffman residence. Janet supported Clarisse the whole way, her expression no better than Clarisse's.

Although Janet was very dissatisfied with Charles' attitude toward her, she did not dare say anything to his face. She could only follow Clarisse, as she was now the only one supporting Janet's relationship with Charles. Clarisse easily saw through Janet's thoughts. Noticing her low spirits, she patted Janet's hand. "Janet, you must be tired too. Why don't you go upstairs and rest? I have some things to discuss with your uncle." After sending Janet away, Clarisse immediately called for the butler. "Where's Mateo?"

James had served Maxwell for a long time and held a high position in the Hoffman household.

He was even a few years older than Mateo and Henry. He had never quite liked Mateo's wife, especially given Clarisse's early departure from the Hoffman family. It was something he had always criticized privately. However, Clarisse was still a Hoffman family daughter-in-law, so James could not do much about his dislike. "Madam, Mr. Mateo is upstairs."

Clarisse nodded. "I'll go up to see him." She added, "Prepare some refreshments."

"Yes, Madam."

immediately instructed the cook to prepare and send up

over to Charles, Mateo rarely inquired

visited the company, he had long since entrusted most

friends or staying at home. Sometimes, he played chess with Maxwell, and

moment, Mateo was reading in his study when he heard footsteps approaching. He furrowed his brows slightly as Clarisse's voice reached him. I hope I'm not

Clarisse had never spoken to him kindly

When Clarisse wall net in, Mateo had not finished reading the page he was

he was done reading that page. As always, she carried

not ravaged her face excessively; she still retained a hint of her former

on the book in front of