The Cherished Wife

was just her imagination, but she was pretty sure that Charles had someone else in mind for this year's opening dance.

However, this year was different. Janet was in the picture, and Becky had a feeling that if she were to dance with Charles as usual, Janet might not take it well-to put it mildly. More importantly, Becky had a nagging feeling that Charles had changed. She could not tell if it Charles's mood had been pretty downcast, but Becky's words were like a switch flipping on a light. His eyebrow quirked up, and he shot her a look of approval. "What do you think?"

"I think we need to shake things up this year. Mr. Hoffman, you and I dance every year. It's kind of become predictable." Becky let out a small laugh, and when she noticed Charles did not seem upset, she relaxed and went on. "Do you have anyone in mind, Mr. Hoffman?" He looked at her, signaling her to continue. Becky inhaled deeply. "Mr. Hoffman, you're a catch. Lots of women at the company think so. What if we did a lucky draw? It could be a fun way to mix things up for the employees. What do you say?" Charles squinted playfully. "Ms. Malls, are you trying to auction off my dance moves?"

"Oh no, Mr. Hoffman, that's not it at all. It's just that you might be getting a little bored with my same old face every year. We've got a lot of other amazing women working here." Becky gathered her courage and locked eyes with Charles. "Take Noelle from the project department, Ms. Shaw. She's gorgeous, smart, and super friendly."

an eye on Charles's face. She watched as the stormy look he usually wore started to melt into something gentler, especially when she brought up Noelle. She saw a real spark of

sure you're careful with the whole sorting

I'm

breath as she grabbed the papers Charles had signed and made to leave. However, Charles stopped her with an offer that lit up her face. "Get through the crunch this month, and you'll

with gratitude. "Really, Mr. Hoffman? Thank you so much! I'll work my tail off. I won't disappoint you! You're a supportive and

her a dismissive wave.