The Cherished Wife

When Janet saw Charles answer the phone and get ready to leave, she instinctively guessed that the caller must be someone important. What bad timing. It was the Hoffman family's annual dinner, an event Charles had never missed as the future head of the family. Even

Kelly's departure years ago had not seemed to stir much emotion in him.

Trusting her women's intuition, Janet was certain the caller was a woman.

Janet's voice was not exactly loud, but it cut through the room so every member of the Hoffman family heard.

Mateo was the first to catch on, his face clouding over. "Charles, where do you think you're heading?"

Charles gave Janet a sharp glance that soon landed on Mateo. "I've got some stuff to sort out. It's quick, and I'll be back in a flash!"

holiday, so you should be enjoying dinner with us!" With the house packed, Mateo played the part of the strict dad. After all, most of the attendees were there to see Charles, so what would happen to their big party if he left? Charles just scrunched his brow

free from Chloe's grasp, scampered over, and grabbed Charles's pants. "Uncle, where are you off to? Why don't you want to hang out with me

a bit as he squatted down, gently touching Anna's face. "Anna, be a good girl. I have to run an errand, but I'll be back before you know it!"

stares and calmly assured Anna, "You're such a good girl, Anna. I've got something

Anna's eyes were wide with hope as

but smile. "I'm sorry, kiddo. It's past your bedtime, and you should stay with your mom. He glanced over at Chloe, who was already on her feet. "Anna, sweetheart, come back

"Okay, deal!" She piped up, "Uncle, bend down

his face close to Anna's. She giggled and planted a

his cheek, smiled affectionately, and gently tapped Anna's

up and gave