The Cherished Wife

When Noelle heard Charles say that, the little bit of emotion she had suppressed earlier crept back up. She could not help but glance in Arya's direction. "It's okay, I'll go home by myself. Fortunately, I never canceled the lease on my old place, so I'll just move back in "I'll have my things sent over gradually. Don't worry about me. Once everything settles down, I'll be able to come back."

Charles sighed. "I really don't want this."

"Neither do I." Noelle could not help but laugh, especially hearing Charles sighing and whining like a child. "But it's a special situation right now; it's not the right time. Charlie, I genuinely want to be with you and spend my life with you. I also want your family to accept me." "I understand." Charles felt his previously tense mood ease as he listened to Noelle. A slight smile appeared on his lips. "Alright, you go ahead."

"Okay." Noelle chuckled. "I'm going shopping later."

"With whom?" Charles' tone instantly shifted, his presence commanding.

Noelle paused, caught off guard by his reaction. "With my colleague from my department. I'm not sure if you remember, but it's the woman who sat next to me at the year-end party-Arya. She's the one who mentioned wanting to check out the prize Mr. Parker drew." "Her?" Charles recalled. Realizing it was just a female colleague, he relaxed immediately. "Alright then. Enjoy yourself with your colleague. Make sure you buy whatever you want. Did you bring the card I gave you?"

yes, I have it," Noelle replied, amused. "Don't worry, I'll make sure

"No, that's all."

"Alright, bye then!"

"Goodbye!"

right in front of her, startling her. She

guilty! Who were you talking to? You were smiling so sweetly. Was it your boyfriend?" Arya teased, her eyes sparkling

"Yes, yes, it was my boyfriend. Satisfied now? I told him I was ditching him

the best!" Arya said joyfully, hugging

mall not far from Noelle's old place. While Noelle mainly