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."

off my shoulders. I really shouldn't butt into you kids' business, but your dad swung by today, and Winter's still my granddaughter. Even if your sister's a little

call. She let out a sigh and glanced over at Charles.

and wrapped Noelle in a comforting hug. "I've got this, but I know it's been tough on

laughed and gently pushed Charles back, taking in the cramped living room-a stark contrast to the spacious

on her at first, but Charles had a knack for showing up every evening like clockwork. She had no clue how he managed to slip

of guilt for the hassle Charles was going through

Dad going to Grandpa, it looks like they're pretty much out of moves. You think they've figured

you be so certain?" Noelle asked, her eyes wide with curiosity. It was not every day someone

was sure they would assume that