The Cherished Wife

Noelle could not help but giggle, swatting Charles's hand away. "You're such a charmer. But hey, it's getting late. Since we're skipping the movie, let's head on home."

Time had flown by, and they had been strolling by the river for almost an hour. The place was alive with people bustling about, and the streetlights had come to life, casting a warm glow on the water. There was something about the early winter evening that felt almost magical.

It had been ages since Noelle felt so calm and content. Her life used to be a whirlwind of travel, never staying put for long. Even with Xavier's support back then, she had often felt overwhelmed by the Shaw family. However, with Charles, his strength seemed to wash away her insecurities, making every awkward moment disappear. With him, she was sure she would never lose her way again.

"What's on your mind?"

Charles squeezed Noelle's hand, noticing her distant gaze.

Snapping back to the present, Noelle spotted a young couple on the bridge, walking arm in arm. The girl leaned against the boy, tugging at his coat in a playful, unsteady dance that made Noelle laugh. "What's so funny?"

She watched as the boy crouched down, arms outstretched, ready for a piggyback ride. The girl, grinning with delight, backed up a few steps and then, hiking up her awkward dress, launched herself onto his back. She must have gone at it with a bit too much enthusiasm, nearly sending

caught the girl in his arms. His voice, a mix of scolding and relief, floated over. "You've got to watch where you're going! Lucky for you, I've

the boy's neck and gave his shoulder a playful pat. "Come on, get up! You said you'd give me

boy stood up, muttering, "What if I hadn't caught

make sure

"Oh, you!" he exclaimed.

to be in

on his back, walked off into the distance, leaving Noelle shaking her head with

her amusement, and his eyes darkened with a playful glint. "Feeling

the now-vanished couple, then turning back to Noelle with a challenging look. "How about