The Cherished Wife (Noelle and Charles)

Charles's grin widened, his eyes twinkling with mirth. "Sounds good!"

A voice from the crowd carried a note of envy: "Mr. Hoffman's really laying on the romance thick, isn't he? He's putting on quite the show!" Jennifer could not help but laugh. "Well, that's what you get for being single. Charles is actually taking it easy, wouldn't you say, Charles?" Charles gave a knowing squint. "Jennifer's got a point!" He quickly followed up, "It's just a matter of getting used to it. Give it some time."

As he spoke, Charles pulled Noelle down to sit beside him and placed a selection of fresh, seasonal produce in front of her. "Here, have a bite to eat first. It'll tide you over."

Noelle grinned and playfully tugged at Charles's sleeve. "Easy there, tiger!"

It was not like Charles was being subtle. Noelle had caught on that he was intentionally making a statement in front of everyone today. Charles was making it crystal clear to the crowd about Noelle's place in his life, ensuring she would have an easier time getting things done in the future. After all, most of these folks were just trying to cozy up to them, except for Charles's close buddies. His gesture was a bold declaration that Noelle was just as important as he was.

Realizing all that, Noelle felt a wave of emotion wash over her.

Charles was going out of his way to introduce her to his inner circle and present her with such significance it was the ultimate show of support.

"Why don't you go mingle with them?" Noelle suggested, eyeing the group of guys deep in conversation. Charles had been sticking close to her side, and it just did not look quite right. Charles squinted again. "Nah, you'll be bored on your own."

"Not at all!" Noelle chuckled. "That Jennifer girl is quite the looker. Who is she?"

"Peter's sister, that's Jennifer. And the guy next to her? That's Yoel, Jennifer's fiancé!" Charles explained, as he speared a slice of apple with a toothpick and offered it to Noelle.

Noelle nodded in understanding. "Oh, so she's Peter's sister." That explained Jennifer's familiar look. Jennifer's resemblance to Peter was hard to miss at first glance. "Jennifer's pretty cool, you know. You should totally hang out with her. She's not like those high-society types we usually meet, she's more your vibe," he suggested.

"Got it," Noelle replied. "Steven doesn't come to Brookville often, so you guys go mingle. I'll go introduce myself to Jennifer!"

"Sure thing!"

Charles gave Noelle's hand a reassuring squeeze. "If you ever feel out of place, just text me, and we can head out, okay?"

"Definitely Noelle gave a firm nod, then gently nudged Charles away "Go on everyone's watching." She felt her cheeks warm up. Charles was being extra affectionate today.

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Once Charles had joined the others, Noelle let out a relieved breath.

She popped a piece of honeydew into her mouth, pondering how to approach Jennifer, when, to her surprise, Jennifer came over on her own initiative. With two drinks in hand, she offered one to Noelle.

Still chewing on her honeydew, Noelle paused, a bit startled by Jennifer's forwardness.

Jennifer arched an eyebrow playfully and flashed a grin. "Try the fruit wine, it's light-won't knock you off your feet!"

Noelle returned the smile with a nod. "Hey there."