The Cherished Wife

Janet pointed at Noelle and stammered, "C-Charles, s-she's..."

A hint of displeasure flashed in Charles' eyes as he glanced sideways at Janet. He then shifted his gaze toward Clarisse in the audience. Clarisse wore an expression of shock. If it had not been for Mateo holding her down, she might have lost her composure. "Mother, I think Janet is tired from hosting. Why don't you take her to rest?" Charles suggested.

Clarisse snapped back to her senses and shot Noelle a sharp look. Noelle felt puzzled under Clarisse's piercing gaze.

Moments later, Janet began shouting hysterically, shedding her earlier poised demeanor. "No, Charles. I won't leave! This woman is a vixen. Have you forgotten what she did to betray you back then? How can you-"

"Enough!" Clarisse rushed over and grabbed Janet's arm tightly. "What nonsense are you spouting?" she hissed.

Leaning closer, she continued in a low voice, "Look carefully. This woman is not Kelly. Do you not understand the importance of this occasion?" Janet's eyes widened as she looked at Clarisse. "But Aunt Clarisse="

Clarisse interrupted, "Charlie, Janet seems exhausted. I'll take her to rest first. As for the rest of the event, carry on with the hosting."

over. "Have Andrew assign a couple of guards to follow them." "Yes, Mr. Hoffman!" Ronald promptly ordered Andrew to find two

knew this was not the right time or place to cause a scene. She

everyone was aware that today was not an ordinary day. It was evident that the matter pertained to Charles' family, which was beyond their reach or concern. Mateo watched as Clarisse left, then glanced at Charles before looking at

what you think, Mateo, I won't

"And that woman..."

while helping Nancy sit down. "We're getting older, Mateo.

"But that woman, she..."

Shaw. Didn't you hear earlier? She's from

she be? Besides, nothing is set in

like you know

"Not really."