The Cherished Wife

Wife 33

Noelle was no fool. She knew she was not exactly the family favorite, but she had not expected them to stoop this low. Her dad, who was usually so compor, was showing his true colors at Grandpa’s birthday, of all places. It was a real eye–opener for Noelle.

“Grandpa, how about I hang out with you for a bit?” Noelle flashed a smile. “Check it out. We’ve got a full house today, all here to party for you.” She gently took Samuel’s hand, ready

to head off.

Julian was fuming his face red and his mustache practically bristling. With the crowd watching, however, he bit his tongue.

Then, out of nowhere, the crowd started buzzing and a wave of gasps rolled through the room. Noelle peeked through the sea of people and spotted someone making an entrance at the door the Shaw family had been keeping an eye on. The guy was tall and striking, walking with a confidence that said keep your distance, completely stealing the spotlight from Noelle and her grandpa

Dressed to the nines in a sleek black suit that made him look even sharper, he strode in confidently with a no–nonsense guy on his heels. He was carrying a fancy gift box and heading straight for Noelle. The crowd could not stop whispering. “Isn’t that the hotshot from the Hoffman family?”

“Hey, that’s Mr. Hoffman, right?” Belonging © NôvelDram/a.Org.

“Wow, the Shaw family must be a big deal to get Mr. Hoffman to show up.”

“If you ask me, it’s not about the Shaw family’s reputation at all. It’s totally because of the Hoffman family connections.”

Winter’s gaze was locked on the guy who was shining like a star in the middle of the crowd. She could not look away. Then, turning to Xavier with a puzzled frown, she asked, “Hey Xavier, when did your family start hanging out with celebrities? Who is this Mr. Hoffman guy?*

Xavier bit his lip, glancing at his dad with mixed feelings. He had to admit that Charles showing up was a big win for his family. He managed a small grin and said, “That’s Charles Hoffman.”

No way, he was that Charles? One of the Four Young Masters of Brookville?

Winter was stunned. A thrill zipped through her as she clutched Xavier’s hand. “That Mr. Hoffman?”

Xavier pursed his lips, staying silent.

While Winter was practically bouncing with excitement, Noelle was the picture of cool. She watched the glowing man walk toward her with all eyes on