The Cherished Wife

Wife 97

Sean’s grin was disarmingly innocent as he adjusted his glasses, looking innocent.

Noelle forced a laugh, her nerves still jangled. The phrase ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing‘ popped into her head unbidden, and she could not help but think it was the perfect way to sum up Sean right then.

Charles squinted, a frosty glint in his eyes, “Showing up unannounced?”

“Don’t tell me my Noelle isn’t happy to see me.” Sean’s eyes landed on Noelle with a playful smirk. “Hmm?”

Noelle forced a laugh, “You two chat. I’ll just be in the kitchen!”

Charles caught Noelle’s hand just in time. “You okay? You look a bit shaken.”

Noelle gulped, shaking her head, “I’m fine, really. I just got a little spooked, but I’m all good now!” She wriggled her hand free from Charles. “You can catch up with Sean, I’ll get started on dinner!”

Seeing Noelle practically bolt away as he opened his mouth to respond, Charles could not help but let out a stifled laugh.

Sean, catching this rare sight, teased, “What’s this? Trying to be Mr. Nice Guy now?”

Charles shot him a daggered look that made Sean’s heart skip. Despite this, Sean just flashed an award- winning grin. “Come on, bro, you’re not playing fair. Every man for himself!”

“Really?” Charles smirked, “Should I call her back, then?”

Sean’s smile vanished, “Dude, are you messing with me?”

“What about you?” Charles was not in the mood to be friendly, “Why did you even come here?”

“Have you forgotten? It’s to celebrate your partnership with our new sister–in–law. We planned a bros‘ get- together. Obviously, you’re not on board. The big guy and Peter are busy, so I figured I would at least check in for them!”

Sean said with a straight face, nudging the dog beside him with his foot. “Arnold, sit!”

Arnold, Sean’s unlikely companion, was a black–furred pooch with a striking streak down his back. Whenever Charles shot him one of those piercing looks, Arnold would droop his head sadly and snuggle up to Sean’s feet, looking guilty.

Sean gave Arnold’s head a comforting pat. “You’re sure about this?” he asked.

Charles shot Sean a skeptical look. “We’ve got the paperwork all sorted. What’s left to doubt?” He let out a derisive snort. “So, what’s the real reason you’re here today?”

Sean gave a nonchalant shrug. “Just bored, that’s all. You know how swamped I’ve been. And Arnold can’t stand the Smiths‘ place!”

“You’re thinking of dumping Arnold on me?” Charles’s voice was icy. “You’ve seen it yourself. Noelle can’t stand the sight of him.” Property of Nô)(velDr(a)ma.Org.

At the mention of Noelle, Arnold perked up, his eyes wide and pleading. He let out a couple of sad barks and shuffled over to Charles, nuzzling against his leg with his big head, trying to win him over.

Charles would not have it. He nudged Arnold away without a glance. “Why not leave him with Peter?”

Sean massaged his temples in frustration. “You think haven’t thought of that? Peter’s only got eyes for his own dogs. Arnold doesn’t stand a chance there…” He sighed. “I wouldn’t be here if I wasn’t desperate, Charles. I’ve got a conference out of town in a few days.”

Charles looked up, a frown creasing his forehead. “The answer’s no, Sean. Noelle doesn’t like him.”

“Noelle hates everything.” Sean rolled his eyes at Charles with a look that could only be described as pure scorn. “Honestly, I think it’s got nothing to do with our dear Noelle!”