The Cherished Wife

"I'll head downstairs to rest now," said Eloise.

"Okay." Steven did not even bother to look up. Only after Eloise left did he slide his hands into his pockets, his dark eyes shining brightly in the night.

He stood by the window, gazing out at the desolate view with his brows slightly furrowed. It had been so many years since he last returned, and it seemed that much had changed, including the people.

After drinking too much alcohol that evening, Charles, though appearing to behave himself, ended up being quite a challenge for Noelle.

Both of them disliked having outsiders in their homes, so even after getting married, they maintained their habit of not having any household staff around.

Noelle usually did not mind, but tonight, taking care of a drunk Charles by herself was proving exhausting.

out of his clothes, but then

her options, Noelle decided to fetch a basin and water to wipe him down instead. It was not until the latter part of the night that she finally breathed a sigh of relief. Fortunately, Charles was calm when drunk. He did not get loud or cause a mess. Otherwise, Noelle felt she might have lost her

not sure how long

open to find Charles propped up on one hand, leaning

was awake, Charles placed both hands on either side of the bed, lifting his

carried a low, husky tone, like the rich warmth of aged wine. Still groggy, Noelle stared at Charles's face hovering so close to hers, her mind taking a

opened her eyes

wanting to mess around now that he was wide awake. Noelle was worn out and not in the mood. "Stop it, lie down. I

alert, was far from feeling drowsy. Plus, tonight Noelle looked especially

revealed her smooth, pale thighs, and the

wife lying before him, he