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."

me. I watched those siblings grow up. Whatever you want to know, I

from the staircase. "What

had changed into a knitted cardigan over

important.

don't you keep Aunt Nancy company, and

already cooking!" Noelle exclaimed as she bounced to her feet. She grabbed Charles' arm to pull him back to the couch. "You stay here and

until Noelle was gone before asking quietly, "Charlie, Noelle mentioned you met with

fingers twitching slightly.

she

murmured, "Nothing. I didn't give her the

not everyone will understand that. Don't forget, Kelly used to be by your side. If Noelle finds out that she looks exactly like Kelly, it might be too much for her to

take lightly. You need to

"I understand."

a small, approving nod. "Good. I won't meddle in

"Thank you, Aunt Nancy."