The Cherished Wife

Ronald breathed a sigh of relief. Maybe Charles was not going to make a big deal out of it.

It turns out Ronald was right. Charles was not looking to make a fuss, considering the situation's urgency. Charles pocketed his phone and glanced over at Noelle. The stew had just been served, its surface not yet bubbling. Noelle watched the pot with a look of longing and impatience, its fiery red contents promising a spicy kick. Noelle noticed Charles had ended the call and curiously asked, "What's up? Aren't we on a break right now? Why are you still trying to reach Ronald?"

"Oh, it's no big deal!" Charles replied. He could not help noticing Noelle fidgeting with the silverware in her right hand, looking like she could not wait to dig in. Feeling a bit self-conscious when she caught Charles's gaze, Noelle sheepishly pulled her hand back. However, Charles was quicker. He caught Noelle's right hand, his dark eyes locking onto hers. He seemed captivated, inspecting her fingers as if they held some secret.

Noelle, puzzled and slightly amused by his intense focus, tapped on the hand that Charles held. "Hey, why are you dilly-dallying? The stew's ready! It might even be overcooked by now. Let go, will you?"

Charles's eyes narrowed, a storm brewing in their depths, before he finally nodded. "Yeah, it's time to eat. Dig in!"

it, she noticed her bowl was

warm glow inside. She was touched by Charles's gesture, and the

Then, Charles suggested a stroll through the nearby mall, prompting

that?" Charles reached out, a bit annoyed, and grabbed Noelle's hand to pull her closer. As he did, he could not help

and maybe do a bit of

hinting at. However, it clicked as they stepped into the jewelry section on the third floor. She trailed a half step behind Charles, who had not released her right hand. Glancing down at her hand again,

you? Are