The Cherished Wife

With a gentle sweep, Charles gathered Noelle up in his arms.

Noelle looked up as she felt the warmth of his embrace. Her eyes, which were so full of sorrow, now sparkled with a mix of helplessness and happiness. "Charles!" she exclaimed.

Noelle wrapped her arms around Charles's neck, pulling herself close to him and nuzzling against his neck like a little kitten searching for comfort. "Charles, you're here!" she said with relief.

"Yeah, I'm here," he replied. Their few words spoke volumes, conveying more than a lengthy conversation ever could.

Gently, Charles lifted Noelle and laid her on the bed, making sure she was snug under the covers. He noticed her feet were chilly to the touch. His brow furrowed with concern. "Why are you walking around barefoot? Don't you realize it's freezing out?" With a slight pout, Noelle looked up at him. Charles could not help but shake his head with a smile. "Hey, I'm not upset with you, alright?"

She nodded. "Charles, please don't go."

be right here," he assured her, holding her close and softly stroking her back and

wrapped around him even as she settled back on the bed. They stayed like that for more than half an hour, and she did

not leaving,

to," she protested, her voice tinged with a childlike

on the lips. "I'm not going anywhere. Just

finally let go of him. She peeled back a corner of the blanket and tapped the mattress. "Lie down

Noelle. She quickly grabbed his hand and snuggled closer, her

here!" Charles reassured her, gently patting her shoulder. "Don't

slowly melted away, but sleep still

"Aren't you going to tell me