The Cherished Wife

The two of them became the focus of everyone's attention. Not just the women, but even the men could not help but admire the sight of them together.

At first glance, Noelle's outfit seemed plain, almost disrespectful for such an important event as the year-end banquet. Yet when she stood next to Charles, there was an undeniable harmony. Both were dressed simply, yet somehow, they stood out remarkably.

In the center of the dance floor, the music began to play. Charles placed his hand on Noelle's waist, gently guiding her. Noelle was wearing three-inch heels, which made her the perfect height beside Charles. They moved gracefully across the dance floor in perfect sync, as if they had been dance partners all their lives.

Noelle smiled, initially worried that her dance steps were rusty, but she quickly found her rhythm. It was all thanks to Charles' confident lead.

Charles gazed down at her, as though she was the only person in the room. "Nelly, what do you think of your husband's dance skills?" he asked in a voice only the two of them could hear.

Noelle bit her lip with a playful smile tugging at the corners. "Mr. Hoffman, you always manage to surprise me," she teased.

"So,

playfully arched her brow, feigning

thought you'd

felt a little embarrassed. "You made such a grand gesture. I'm sure to be a target now." While she genuinely

shake the feeling that this might

planted another distraction

hesitated. Then, she turned her head and noticed Winter in the corner, glaring at her

raised an

I don't think it's working," Noelle said, thinking back to Janet's earlier outburst. Janet's reaction to her

on, and Noelle could