The Cherished Wife

"I guess I'm just worrying too much. I didn't think so, but with all the drama blowing up, it's not just affecting Winter. It's hitting you too..."

"Grandpa, I get what you're saying," Charles said, quickly looking at Noelle. She nodded. "I'll talk to Grandpa."

Noelle grabbed the phone. "Hey, Grandpa. It's me!"

"How's everything with you, Noelle?" Samuel asked, relieved by the steadiness in Noelle's voice. It seemed like she was not bothered by the whole mess.

He had a hunch the rumors were not true because he trusted Charles, and he trusted his granddaughter even more.

"I'm good, Grandpa. Don't worry about this mess. Charles and I will handle it. There's absolutely nothing going on between Charles and Winter. Someone's just stirring the pot on purpose. It's a bit of a tangled web, and I can't lay it all out right now, but trust me when I say I won't let them get the best of me."

really shouldn't butt into you kids' business, but your dad swung by today, and Winter's still my granddaughter.

said as she ended the call. She let out

Charles pocketed his phone and wrapped Noelle in a comforting hug.

back, taking in the cramped living room-a stark contrast to the spacious Phoenix

on her at first, but Charles had a knack for showing up every evening like clockwork.

a twinge of guilt for the hassle Charles was going through trekking from the office to the Phoenix Tree Residence and then

going to Grandpa, it looks like they're pretty much out of moves.

be so certain?" Noelle asked, her eyes wide with curiosity. It

like the back of her hand, and she was sure they would assume that Noelle was behind it all. However,