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.

raised an eyebrow. "So, did you find this

arched her brow, feigning annoyance. "More surprise than

mischievous!" Charles chuckled, not believing her one bit. He smiled softly. "I thought you'd be moved, especially since I went to great lengths to match my number

"You made such a grand gesture. I'm sure to be a target now." While she genuinely appreciated the surprise Charles brought her,

feeling that this

Before this, I already planted another distraction for

hesitated. Then, she turned her head and noticed Winter

an

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

was usually spot on, and Noelle could not help but