The Cherished Wife (Noelle and Charles)

Becky was at the top of Janet's buddy list, so for the past three months, any chance Janet got, she would whisk Becky off to hit the shops.

gave Charles the heads-up.

Being from the high-rolling Baker family, Janet did not hold back on the spending, showering Becky with all the designer labels. However, as Charles's right-hand woman, Becky was wary about accepting the really pricey stuff. So, when Janet first invited her out, Becky Charles cracked open the box and, to his surprise, there was a platinum necklace. It was not the crown jewels or anything, but it was still designer and definitely not cheap. Becky was on the fence. The really ritzy gifts usually went through Ronald before getting to Charles. "Just give it to Becky," Charles said with a shrug, tossing it back. "Keep the friendship going. Becky's got the smarts to know what's cool to say and what's not."

"Got it!" Ronald pocketed the necklace. "Mr. Hoffman, Winter's wrapped up her latest gig and she'll probably be back in town any day now!"

Charles squinted thoughtfully. "Oh? No new gig lined up?"

"Not right now. Year-end's got everything either kicked off early or pushed back. Plus, I haven't set up anything new for Winter," Ronald explained, trying to get a read on Charles. "You think she should stay put for a bit?" Charles shook his head with a dismissive wave. "No big deal if he's back. You handle the details, okay? And the Collosus Group's big bash? Let Becky and Janet run the show!"

"Janet?" Ronald blinked in disbelief. "However, Ms. Scott's green, I'm worried she'll..."

"Cut it out. She's got a diploma from a top-notch school. She's not clueless. Plus, this'll keep her out of trouble if she's got her hands full, Charles said, his eyes narrowing in a clear sign he was not thrilled with Janet's latest stunts.

Ronald caught on quickly. "Got it. I'll get Becky on it pronto."

"Good." Charles nodded. "What's the word over at Royal Star Entertainment?"

"All quiet on that front, no big waves. Speaking of, we usually have Royal Star's celebs at our shindig. What about this year?" Ronald asked, thinking about Winter's arrival and wanting to make sure everything was set. Charles arched an eyebrow. "Same drill as always. Let Becky figure out the fresh stuff. Don't run to me with every little thing!"

When the news hit Becky and

Janet's ears, Becky barely batted an eyelash, but Janet was all sparks and fireworks, latching onto Becky's hand with a barrage of questions. "Becky, about the annual gig how's it usually done?"

Becky was neck-deep in

spreadsheets and reports when

Janet's question hit her like a curveball. With a sigh, she

remembered Charles's orders and knew she had no choice but to buckle down and get it done. "It's the same old song and dance every year a big bash followed by the annual awards gala. Mr. Hoffman, the big boss of Collosus Group, is always on the guest list. Let's not forget the celebs from Royal Star Entertainment," Becky explained, giving Janet a look. "Ms. Scott, trust me, it's a beast of a job with little to no thanks. I'd think twice if I were you about taking on this monster."

However, Janet's eyes sparkled with determination. "No way, I'm going to nail it!" The more Becky tried to dissuade her, the more Janet's resolve hardened.

She had been with Collosus Group for three months, and Charles had kept her warming the bench the whole time. She might have thrown in the towel without her aunt and her dad back in Capiton cheering her on.