The Cherished Wife

"But the way you treat Nancy..."

"Look, how I treat my Aunt Nancy is my choice. She's my uncle's wife, and she practically raised me. I see nothing wrong about being good to her now. Don't forget you were the one who walked away from me when I was little, Mom. So, don't expect too much now. No matter what, you're still my mother in the Hoffman family records, and that's not changing."

"Charles!" A shiver ran down Clarisse's spine at his words. She was terrified that he might say something even more cutting.

"Mom, if there's nothing else, I've got work to do. I can't stay on the phone."

"Charles!" Clarisse caught him just in time. "After all these years, can't you find it in your heart to forgive me? I'm back and trying to make things right now. I am your mother, Charles. Everything I've done has been for you. Can't you forgive me? Please let me..." "Mom, what are you trying to say?"

room when Charles gestured for her to hold off on speaking. "If it's not

right now. However, you've got to give me a chance, don't

need!" Charles cut her off without a second thought. "Second uncle and aunt are just looking for a change of scenery to help with her health. As for you, the Hoffman family's old house has plenty of room. If you're feeling cooped up,

the call, his expression

her what to do next. She really wanted to bolt

Charles's family dynamics, but she was not one to snoop. Realizing she had stumbled onto such a big secret, she

creased slightly. "Didn't you have

quickly regained her