The Cherished Wife by Chweety

Julian was surprised, but he knew today was a special day and that he should act appropriately. He remembered that Charles had brought a gift for Sir Shaw's birthday back then and had just mentioned playing chess with him, so they must have met in private.

After thinking it over, Julian guessed that his father must know Charles, even though he had never mentioned it. His father did seem to enjoy going out more recently.

Julian looked Charles over and said, "My father is inside, having a rest. Does Mr. Hoffman want to go in and talk to him?"

Charles gave a quick nod. "I must be going now!"

This whole time, Charles had not even bothered to say hello to Joseph. He just glanced at Ronald and walked away. Ronald quickly passed the present he was holding to Julian. "This is a gift from Mr. Hoffman to Ms. Shaw and Mr. Harris."

"Thanks a lot, Mr. Hoffman!" Julian winked, and someone hurried over to take the gift.

Joseph watched Charles and Ronald leave, his face turning a stormy shade of gray and his hands balled into tight fists.

He had tried to

him, and they felt like a million slaps to the face, especially since Charles seemed to favor Julian over

Even though Julian was part of his family, Joseph still felt embarrassed. He thought

was far from okay with that. He had wanted to befriend Charles,

about what had just happened,

down the hallway to Samuel's room. Samuel was pretty old and had come for the wedding, but he did not want to wear

walked, the

at Charles. Everyone in Brookville knew about Charles Hoffman but hardly anyone had. actually met him. Now, the famous Charles Hoffman was right in front of them,

Hoffman,

glance and went inside. There was Samuel,

chess game. When they heard Charles come in,