The Cherished Wife

The car had barely come to a stop when Clarisse turned to the visibly agitated Janet. "Janet, what's up?"

"Turn around, now! Follow that car!" Janet shouted at the driver, pointing ahead. "Do you see it? That's Charles's car!"

"Charles?" Clarisse squinted at the traffic, but all she saw were cars zipping by, none with a recognizable plate. "Are you sure you didn't get it mixed up?"

"I'm positive, Aunt Clary. I'd know Charles's car anywhere, and I've got the license plate memorized. We've got to catch up!" Janet's heart was pounding for reasons she could not explain. "What's Charles up to, heading out at this hour? And I'm pretty sure there was someone with him in the front seat!"

"You're probably mistaken. If he's got company, it's likely just his secretary," Clarisse reasoned, though she had to admit she did not know her son as well as she might. Charles leaving the office at this time had to be business-related. "Janet, look at the time. You've got work, remember?"

he's never been like this. He used to be so sweet to me, but now... there has to be a reason

in conversation about a deal involving some West City property, trying to decide their next

beat as Charles's foot slammed down on the accelerator. Papers in hand, she nearly lurched forward, barely catching herself in time. Once she regained her balance, she turned to Charles with wide eyes. "Charles, what's going on?" Charles's lips were a tight line as he stole a glance in the rearview mirror. Noelle twisted around to see what

with a nod, signaling Noelle to get ready for a high-speed chase. As he floored it, the car behind

exclaimed. Then, in a rush of words, she said, "Step on it, we need to pass Charles's car. I have to see who that woman

in

well aware of Charles's driving prowess. Charles's car