The Cherished Wife

Charles's grin widened, his eyes twinkling with mirth. "Sounds good!"

A voice from the crowd carried a note of envy: "Mr. Hoffman's really laying on the romance thick, isn't he? He's putting on quite the show!" Jennifer could not help but laugh. "Well, that's what you get for being single. Charles is actually taking it easy, wouldn't you say, Charles?" Charles gave a knowing squint. "Jennifer's got a point!" He quickly followed up, "It's just a matter of getting used to it. Give it some time."

As he spoke, Charles pulled Noelle down to sit beside him and placed a selection of fresh, seasonal produce in front of her. "Here, have a bite to eat first. It'll tide you over."

Noelle grinned and playfully tugged at Charles's sleeve. "Easy there, tiger!"

It was not like Charles was being subtle. Noelle had caught on that he was intentionally making a statement in front of everyone today. Charles was making it crystal clear to the crowd about Noelle's place in his life, ensuring she would have an easier time getting things done in the future. After all, most of these folks were just trying to cozy up to them, except for Charles's close buddies. His gesture was a bold declaration that Noelle was just as important as he was.

Realizing all that, Noelle felt a wave of emotion wash over her.

going out of his way to introduce her to his inner circle and present her

of guys deep in conversation. Charles had been sticking close to her side, and it just did not look quite right. Charles squinted again. "Nah, you'll be bored on your

"That Jennifer girl

sister, that's Jennifer. And the guy next to her? That's Yoel, Jennifer's fiancé!" Charles explained, as he speared a slice of apple with a toothpick and

Peter was hard to miss at first glance. "Jennifer's pretty cool, you know. You should totally hang out with her. She's not like those high-society types we usually

come to Brookville often, so you guys

"Sure thing!"

gave Noelle's hand a reassuring squeeze. "If you ever feel out of place,

everyone's watching." She felt her cheeks warm up. Charles was being extra