The Cherished Wife

Charles nodded in response. "Why? Don't you like having them around?" Noelle shook her head. "It's not that. I just haven't spotted them yet."

"They're good at staying out of sight. I can call them off in a little while if you're not into it, but they'll stay for now. I'm not taking any chances with your safety."

Noelle's laughter rang out as she playfully gripped Charles's hand, and they left The Majestic Lounge behind. Once they were settled in the car, she teased, "I get it. You're just looking out for me. Having someone tag along makes you worry less, right?" "It sure does!"

The group made their way to Bamboo Grove House, where Sean had reserved the grandest room there. The manager, spotting the arrival of such VIPs, hurried over to greet them. It was not every day that Bamboo Grove House hosted such an elite crowd, and the manager was determined to make a good impression.

Ronald had taken care of the menu, and the feast began as soon as everyone was seated. Charles and Noelle were fashionably late.

Sean could not resist a playful jab. "Charles, you'd just wither away without constant affection, huh?"

Charles gave a sly grin in response. "Absolutely!"

Sean was momentarily speechless.

hold their own!" He launched into the

that it was hard not to chuckle. If Noelle did not know better, she would think Sean had missed

with a couple of impressed clicks of the tongue, Sean quipped, "With your gift of gab, Ms. Scott, have

been quietly devouring her meal

with a hint of pride, she added, "You didn't even mention my track star days in school. I was a pro at both sprints and distance running. Noelle can

and popped them into her mouth. When Rowena gave Noelle the floor, all eyes landed onet her, causing her to stiffen and blush as she nodded. "Yeah, Rowena was a track star back in the day remember

in. Then Sean teased, "So, is the reason you're still single that you're too quick on

retorting, "Mr. Smith, you talk like you're not single yourself. We're all in the same boat, so let's not throw

laugh at his expense. Sean glared at him