The Cherished Wife

Clarisse staggered backward, gripping the dining table for support as she gasped. "Charlie, are you really willing to oppose the entire Hoffman family and the Bakers for the sake of this woman?

"Charlie!"

"Do you even know what you're doing? Is she worth it? You're meant to be the future head of the Hoffmans!"

"Whether she's worth it or not is my business. It has nothing to do with the Bakers," Charles replied coldly.

If he had been holding back earlier, Charles released his full authority now, his sharp gaze locking onto Clarisse's. "I suppose your brother forgot to take you with him when he left Brookville recently, Madam Baker." "I'm the daughter-in-law of the Hoffmans, your father's wife!"

"How fortunate that you still remember you're my father's wife," Charles sneered, his smile laced with cold mockery. He was clearly unfazed by Clarisse's words.

Hoffmans are none of my concern. Likewise, my marriage and my wife are nobody's business, least of all yours. Consider this your final warning. If you come after my wife again, don't expect me to show any mercy." Charles grabbed Noelle's hand, intending to leave. However, Clarisse called after

what I'm doing," Charles

that scandal with Winter-was that your doing too? Was it just a distraction to

by her own son.

unreadable, but his

wave of disbelief wash over her. How could she, after all her years of

or was her son simply too cunning

Clarisse asked, her voice

a brow,

sensing the escalating conflict and noticing Clarisse's increasingly pale face. Worried, she whispered, "Charlie,

his head and