The Cherished Wife (Noelle and Charles)

"Oh?" Henry raised an eyebrow and glanced at Charles, who nodded. He was clearly satisfied with Noelle's words. "It's true, Uncle Henry."

"In that case, I have nothing more to say," Henry agreed. "I know you're prudent in your actions. Since you chose not to inform us earlier, I assume you had your reasons. I won't press further. But as for your parents and your grandfather..." "I will tell them when the time is right. For now, I'd ask to keep this confidential, uncle," Charles responded, his expression turning serious.

It was rare for Henry to see Charles take something so seriously. After a moment of silence, he nodded. "This is ultimately your decision, but I still think you should inform your father.

"Dealing with your parents will be rather tricky, especially with Janet in the picture. How do you plan to handle that?"

Henry glanced at Noelle, noting that she did not seem fazed, which suggested she was already aware of Janet.

"You're both grown-ups with your own thoughts and the ability to handle your affairs. However, Janet is connected to your mother's side and is also backed by the Bakers. You'll need to navigate that carefully."

"This isn't a difficult matter; I have it under control," Charles assured, pausing briefly. "Since Uncle Henry and Aunt Nancy are already here, why not stay for a couple of days? The air is good, and there won't be anyone annoying around to disturb you." Henry smirked. "You rascal!" He stood up and said, "Come upstairs. I need to talk to you."

Charles followed Henry up to the study on the second floor, while Noelle remained downstairs with Nancy, chatting.

It seemed that Nancy had been cooped up at the Hoffmans for too long, and she was delighted to speak with Noelle. She was asking many questions about her family background.

As she learned more about the complexities of Noelle's family, Nancy understood why the couple chose to marry quietly.

"I've watched Charlie grow up; he's a

good kid. And Noelle, you're a good

girl too. I feel at ease with Charlie being with you," Nancy said, patting Noelle's hand. "But you can't keep your marriage a secret forever. You'll need to find the right moment to tell everyone."

"You're right, Aunt Nancy. It's just that Charlie and I don't think this is the best time," Noelle admitted. "But we know this can't be avoided forever. We aren't deliberately trying to escape the situation."

"That's good to hear," Nancy nodded approvingly. "You're a bright girl-not overly burdened by heavy thoughts, but very thoughtful." "Aunt Nancy, you flatter me."

"You mentioned you work at Collosus?" Nancy suddenly recalled something. "Then what about Janet..."

kel

"Aunt Nancy, rest assured, at work, Charlie and I maintain a professional relationship. I'm in the project department, so we don't see each other often. Work is work, and personal life is personal life," Noelle explained clearly. "Actually, Aunt Nancy, Charlie invited you here because he wants you to meet someone."

"Meet someone? Was it not to meet you?" Nancy asked in confusion, then furrowed her brows. "If it's not you, then who?"

"I'm not entirely sure, but Charlie said it's someone very important to you," Noelle replied, glancing upstairs. "Charlie wants to keep this from Uncle Henry for now, so..." Nancy frowned slightly. "You guys want me to divert Henry?"

Noelle nodded. "Of course, Aunt Nancy, if you don't want to meet them, we don't have to. Charlie said it's entirely up to you. If you choose not to, we won't."