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."

you ever have questions you can't ask Charlie, come to me. I watched those siblings

voice interrupted them from the staircase. "What are

over

"Nothing important.

don't you keep Aunt Nancy

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

asking quietly, "Charlie, Noelle mentioned

a moment, his fingers twitching slightly. He gave a slow

did she say to

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

replied, "Good. I know your love for Noelle is real, but not everyone will understand that. Don't forget, Kelly used to

concern was genuine. "This isn't something to take lightly. You need to think carefully about how

"I understand."

nod. "Good. I won't meddle in

"Thank you, Aunt Nancy."