The Cherished Wife by Chweety

Wife 5

Chapter 5

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“It doesn’t matter who I am. What matters is that I’m here to help.” Charles tapped his cufflink, his gaze steady and serene as he watched Noelle.

A wave of alarm washed over her. Something about this guy screamed that he was more complicated than he was making himself out to be. “I don’t need your help.”

“Really? Then why were you here last night, trying to drink away your troubles? Your boyfriend is now your brother–in–law, your parents don’t trust you, and now, you’re the town’s favorite punching bag. Did you miss the front page of the news?”

“That’s none of your business.” Noelle’s jaw tightened. “You helped me out yesterday, and yes, I’m thankful for that.” She swung her legs out of bed and started searching for her clothes, but they were nowhere in sight. “Hey, mister!”

“Charles.” He leaned against the wall with an easy grace, watching Noelle’s panicked search. That’s my name.”

Hearing the name ‘Charles‘ made her eyebrows twitch. It rang a bell. “Are you related to Xavier?”

you to choose to believe me or not. Charles shot back without

What’s your real game here, getting to save the damsel in distress?” Noelle eyed Charles warily, convinced he was up to no good. “Are you trying to use me to get back

Noelle as if she had made a joke. “Please. He’s not worth

bold arrogance. “If it’s not about Xavier, then we’ve

Ms. Shaw?” Charles locked eyes with her, probing. “Doesn’t it burn you up, being betrayed by

really

happiness that’s out of reach for everyone else in this world!” He

by the intensity in his eyes. He squinted

by the warmth on her neck, Noelle felt a shock

her might and stumbling

intensified as he strode over and pulled Noelle to him, trapping her against the wall in a classic wall–pinning maneuver. He tilted his head down, his

he leaned in and whispered with a laugh,

Charles invading her personal space. Her heart raced uncontrollably. “I don’t owe you a walk down the aisle just because you saved me. What

think it is? You’re acting like we’re still in the

on the idea of our marriage. Charles teased, his fingertip tracing the