The Cherished Wife

Noelle thought about what Charles had told her-that Clarisse had always been in love with Henry.

She glanced at Nancy and murmured, "I'm sorry, Aunt Nancy."

Nancy shook her head with a sigh. "Silly child, there's no need to apologize to me. It's the truth, after all. Even if you hadn't asked, the fact remains that Clarisse has always loved Hen."

She exhaled deeply, her expression tinged with regret. "Back then, she resented Hen for not fighting to marry her. And she blamed Mateo for taking her. So, there was never a peaceful day for her at the Hoffman residence. "It's a shame for the children... and poor Liliana. Charlie probably told you about her, right?"

Noelle nodded. "Yes, he mentioned her. Charlie feels deeply guilty toward her."

Nancy said softly, "Charlie is a good child. People say he's ruthless, but he has carried the weight of the Hoffmans on his shoulders since young. He has no choice but to be tough.

"But his love for Chloe and Liliana is genuine. It's just a pity that Liliana will never truly be accepted by the Hoffmans.

"Do you have any other questions?" Nancy asked.

Noelle shook her head. "Not for now."

ask Charlie, come to me. I watched those siblings grow up. Whatever

them from the staircase.

into a knitted cardigan over a plain white T-shirt,

smiled. "Nothing important. We're just

nodded warmly. "It's getting late. Why don't you keep Aunt Nancy company, and I'll make

grabbed Charles' arm to pull him back to the couch. "You

Noelle was gone before asking quietly, "Charlie,

for a moment, his fingers twitching slightly. He

she say

didn't give her the chance

know your love for Noelle is real, but not everyone will understand that. Don't forget,

lightly. You

"I understand."

small, approving nod. "Good.

"Thank you, Aunt Nancy."