The Cherished Wife by Chweety

"You're not late at all!" Noelle smiled when she saw Brian standing at the door, noticing a slight change in his demeanor. "Mr. Click is inside!" Brian nodded slightly, his face looking a bit pale. He then followed Noelle into the room.

George spotted Brian immediately. He set down his teacup and stood up to greet him, "Brian, it's been a long time!"

"George, long time no see." The two men shook hands and exchanged pleasantries.

Noticing that Brian still looked unwell, Noelle poured him a cup of warm water. "Mr. Parker, you didn't have to come if you weren't feeling well!"

"I'm fine." Brian accepted the cup politely but set it aside.

He adjusted his coat with his slender fingers while Teresa served a cup of warm tea to George. She then stood up. "Mr. Parker, may I take your coat for you?"

Teresa extended her hand politely. Brian paused, directing his gaze at Teresa for the first time.

His dark eyes deepened as they lingered on her.

know Teresa.

Noelle broke the silence, realizing the tension. "Mr. Parker, this is Teresa Saunders, my friend and the owner of this garden house. I invited her specifically to chat with Mr. Click." Brian snapped back

and hanging

down and

so

chimed

vel

George. However, Brian's gaze frequently

unaware, Noelle noticed Brian's expression and quietly moved closer to Teresa, giving her a subtle wink. Teresa looked at Noelle in confusion. "What's

at Brian, catching

raised an eyebrow and chuckled

smiled slightly, handing a cup of tea to Noelle. "I thought

as planned. Despite

it was Gerald Rogers' birthday, and some friends had gathered for a