The Cherished Wife

"So, I was right with my guess?" Noelle had felt it in her gut, but hearing it from Charles hit differently. She felt a twinge of sadness and glanced at him. "Your mom doesn't like me, does she?" Charles's brow creased ever so slightly when he heard Noelle's words, a wave of annoyance washing over him for no clear reason. "I like you, and that's all that matters," he declared firmly.

Noelle gave a half-smile, her unease showing. "It's not that I'm trying to imply anything else. I'm just worried your mom might not take to me because of the whole Janet situation." They had been married for quite a while now, and even though it was Noelle who had initially been hesitant about meeting the Hoffmans, she could not shake the fear that they might not think highly of her.

Charles could easily read the concern in Noelle's eyes. With a sigh, he reassured her, "Forget about all that. I'm the one who married you, and I'm the one who's going to be with you for the rest of our lives, not them. You don't have to worry about a thing."

Noelle felt the reassuring grip of Charles's hand. She looked up into his deep, soulful eyes and managed a small smile. "Alright. I've got it." She did not want her worries to come between them. "I'll do my best to win them over and make sure your family likes me!" Charles chuckled and affectionately tapped Noelle's forehead. "Just do what you can. Some things in life just can't be forced." He did not need her to be anything more than herself. Even if the Hoffmans did not approve, it would not change a thing for him. However, if it mattered to Noelle, he was more than happy to play along.

so if she's not on board,

planning to hang

like it!" Charles teased, giving Noelle's hand a gentle squeeze. "When are you gonna drop the act and just say what you

a tiny twinge of discomfort,

long," Charles reassured her, patting her hand softly. "So, what's on the menu for tonight?" "What

for so long. I was

just bored of your cooking," Noelle shot back playfully. "I think it's about time you experienced what