Noelle could not help but giggle, swatting Charles's hand away. "You're such a charmer. But hey, it's getting late. Since we're skipping the movie, let's head on home."Time had flown by, and they had been strolling by the river for almost an hour. The place was alive with people bustling about, and the streetlights had come to life, casting a warm glow on the water. There was something about the early winter evening that felt almost magical.It had been ages since Noelle felt so calm and content. Her life used to be a whirlwind of travel, never staying put for long. Even with Xavier's support back then, she had often felt overwhelmed by the Shaw family. However, with Charles, his strength seemed to wash away her insecurities, making every awkward moment disappear. With him, she was sure she would never lose her way again."What's on your mind?"Charles squeezed Noelle's hand, noticing her distant gaze.Snapping back to the present, Noelle spotted a young couple on the bridge, wal
Charles and Noelle had not expected Henry and Nancy to still be up. "Uncle Henry, Aunt Nancy, why are you still up?" Charles asked, surprised.Henry grinned at them, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Back so late? Looks like someone had a date night."Noelle let out an awkward laugh and quickly fetched slippers for Charles, then knelt to slip off her shoes.Charles shot Noelle a look and said while changing his footwear, "We were just giving you lovebirds some alone time. I bet you wouldn't get a moment's peace at the Hoffman family's old house, right?"Henry chuckled. "Look at you, acting like it's all for our sake." He was clearly delighted with Charles's consideration. "So, Noelle, did you have fun today?""Yes! I’m so happy," Noelle said with a bright smile as she slipped on her shoes and headed over first. "Charles mentioned that today's your anniversary. You guys must've had fun too." She dug through her bag for a moment before pulling out a small box. "Oh, here's a little
"Enough already, you've never been a burden. You're the most important thing to me," Henry said, giving Nancy's hand a reassuring pat. "If you really think it's the right thing to do, then I'll go. However, I'm bringing you with me, just to show our faces.""Alright!"Nancy nodded, pleased, then quickly asked, "Charles, how's the prep for the annual meeting coming along?""Our team's got it pretty much under control. The meeting's in five days, so you guys should definitely come.""And your folks...""They'll probably be there too!"Charles was not too fussed about it. Whether he invited Clarisse or not, she would show up.He knew exactly what Clarisse was thinking.Her departure years ago was not just for the reasons she had given. A big part of it was the embarrassment of facing the Hoffman family. After all those years, her return to Brookville, to the Hoffman family, was bound to be more than just a simple visit. That's why Clarisse was sure to be at the Collosus Group's an
"Exactly. Make sure to keep it safe, you only get one," Becky said with a grin, snapping the list shut. "I've got to make the rounds to the other departments.""Take it easy, Ms. Malls!"Once Becky was gone, Arya could hardly sit still. She was about to snag Noelle for a gossip session when Brian shot her a look that made her back off. "Work time's for work, not personal stuff." He tapped the folder and passed it to Noelle. "Follow this, and if you hit a dead end, come find me.""Got it, boss." Noelle accepted the folder, and once Brian was out of sight, she settled back at her desk, slipped the token into her bag, and flipped open the materials to get down to business.Arya scooted over, whispering like she was sharing a secret. "Don't you wanna know what the token's actually for? I asked Becky, and she said it's tied to some perks at the annual meeting.""Oh." Noelle nodded with understanding.Arya glanced at Noelle, who appeared utterly indifferent to the whole welfare topic,
Charles took a quick glance at his phone screen, then back at Ronald. "What's on your mind?""Nothing, really," Ronald said, puzzled by the odd look of Charles's phone chat interface. He never pegged Charles as the type to dive into Messenger, but there he was, thumbing through it. Ronald could not resist a playful jab. "You haven't just added your wife on there, have you?"Charles pocketed his phone with a raised eyebrow. "Got an issue with that?""No way! Why would I?" Ronald backpedaled quickly. "I mean, Messenger's all about keeping in touch, right, Mr. Hoffman? Don't you want to add a few more people?""Such as?""Like Mr. Lennon, Mr. Smith, or even me." Ronald gestured to himself with a grin. "Come on, Mr. Hoffman. These smartphone apps are super handy, right? Staying connected is a breeze. Plus, if you ever ping me on Messenger, you'll get an instant reply, I promise.""So, Mr. Wells, you're saying you'd drop everything to reply to me, even if you were working?" Charles le
Charles let out a laugh. "It's just a dress. You're acting like it's the end of the world. What about this one? Looks good, right?"He pulled a crisp white shirt from Noelle's closet, pretty standard stuff, and then grabbed a cozy white sweater.As Charles kept pulling out clothes, Noelle facepalmed. "These aren't dresses, they're... well...""Yeah?" Charles quirked an eyebrow. "They're what?""Never mind!" Sure, they were warm, but how were they any different from her everyday wear?The real difference was in Charles' styling. The outfits he chose had that crisp, detached vibe, especially with the black and white theme topped off with a sleek black coat. It was warm, classy, and totally Noelle's style, which was why her closet was full of these mix-and-match pieces."So, you're saying you want me to look good, but that's just business as usual, right?"Charles softened his gaze. "You always look amazing. It's just a yearly get-together. There’s no need to go all out. You're not
With the annual gala happening tonight, the Collosus Group staff could hardly focus on their work, all itching to clock out and get to the venue first. Becky and Janet, the event's chief organizers, had arrived early to oversee everything.However, Janet would not dream of getting her hands dirty. She had shown up early just to check on the number tags.Becky might have been tight-lipped about the whole thing, but Janet had her ways of finding out that a draw would decide this year's opening dance partners – and those number tags were key.After making sure the numbers were all set backstage, Janet finally relaxed and went to say hi to Becky.Becky, who was swamped with tasks, barely had time for Janet, who eventually took the hint and left.Janet was all in for the night's big bash, going all out by booking the same glam squad that works with the A-listers to craft her perfect party look. Becky, on the other hand, had to do some sleuthing after Janet bounced. It took her a good w
Today, Noelle was behind the wheel of the red Ferrari that Charles had gifted her when they tied the knot. The car was a real head-turner and seemed a bit at odds with her current outfit.Once Brian was in the passenger seat, he was focused on his phone, apparently sorting something out. Noelle, driving alongside him, stole a glance his way. "Busy even after clocking out, Mr. Parker?""Oh, it was just an old buddy I hadn't caught up with in ages. It was just a quick catch-up!" Brian pocketed his phone and turned to Noelle with a curious grin. "You know, you're quite the odd one out. Everyone's on edge about the annual shindig, but you’re cool as a cucumber."Noelle chuckled. "Should I be biting my nails?""Well, now that you mention it, I've been curious about you and Mr. Hoffman..." Brian waggled an eyebrow playfully. "This is off the record and just between us. Feel free to keep quiet.""It's no big secret. Since you're in the loop, there’s no point in playing coy. Charles and I
"Sean, stop messing around. Let go of me first," Liliana tugged at Sean's arm, realizing how tightly he was holding her. "You're choking me."Only then did Sean loosen his grip slightly, though he still did not let her go. His forehead rested against hers, and he panted softly. "Liliana, do you remember what you said to me in the fire?"Liliana's face turned red, and she awkwardly turned her head away. "N-No, I don't remember. What did I say? I don't think I—mmph..."Before she could finish, Sean kissed her, swallowing the rest of her words with that one stubborn kiss.Liliana raised her hands and smacked Sean on the shoulder, trying to push him away. "Sea—mmph, what are you doing? Let me go..."She shoved him hard, and Sean stumbled back, clutching his chest. Liliana's face went pale, and she rushed over. "Sean, what's wrong? Are you okay? Did I hurt you somewhere?"Nonetheless, Sean took the opportunity to wrap his arms around her again. That feeling of holding her tightly
Noelle raised an eyebrow. "I didn't say that."Then, she added, "That knot in Liliana's heart can only be undone by Sean."What happened back then had always been a shadow between the two of them. Noelle had noticed it these past few days. Though Liliana stubbornly claimed she no longer cared, she clutched her phone every single day, obviously waiting for a call.Liliana's social circle was small. Noelle and the others knew everyone she knew. Who else could she be waiting for but Sean?Charles furrowed his brows. "If Liliana can't have the best, then she's better off with nothing."Noelle could not help but laugh. "Alright, alright. I know you're still holding a grudge against Hayes and Savannah."Honestly, Noelle shared the sentiment. "Savannah really crossed a line with how she handled everything."Charles reached out and gently pinched Noelle's knuckles. "That's not what I meant."Noelle chuckled, exasperated. "I know."Outside, the sound of a car engine drew their attentio
Sean shoved Hayes away. "Dad, if you're just like Mom and trying to stop me from being with Liliana, then don't even bother. If I can't marry Liliana in this lifetime, I won't marry anyone else."With that, Sean lay down decisively. Hayes frowned. "Sean, this isn't about what we want anymore. It's about Liliana and Charles now."Truthfully, Hayes did not have many opinions about Sean and Liliana's relationship. He was always too busy with the company to pay attention to such things. Even the events from four years ago were only now becoming clearer to him."If you insist on marrying her, I won't stop you. But from what I can see, the problem lies with Liliana and Charles."Sean's gaze sharpened as he clenched his fists. "That's impossible. Liliana already forgave me back when the fire happened. She promised that if we both made it out, she'd marry me."Hayes sighed. "Your mother… She misunderstood Liliana and said some harsh things. Just rest for now. Once you're better, we'll go
Sean spat out a mouthful of blood. One hand gripped the bedsheet tightly, his gaze turning darker than ever."What do you mean by that? What do you mean she doesn't want to marry me? She promised me. She said that as long as I was willing to walk out of that fire with her, she'd be with me. You're lying to me, aren't you? Tell me you're lying to me."Sean's bloodshot eyes locked on Savannah's. "Tell me."Savannah was momentarily stunned by the sheer force of Sean's gaze. This was the first time she ever felt fear in front of her own son. "Sean, I…""Where's Liliana?" Sean demanded."Sean," Hayes called out as he pushed open the door and stepped in. "That's no way to speak to your mother.""Then how should I speak to her?" Sean's voice turned icy."Did you know it was Joanna who drugged me nine years ago? And while I was under the influence, I forced myself on Liliana? I misunderstood her, and as a result, she had to hide in the countryside for years."Four years ago, it was me
The operating room door swung open, and Liliana spun around. She saw Saxon step out. Not caring about anyone else’s opinions, she grabbed his hand. "Mr. Holt, how's Sean?"Saxon looked down at their hands, noting how soft and warm hers was. He met her eyes and nodded. "The patient is out of danger now. He should wake up by tomorrow."Hearing that, Liliana let out a sigh of relief and then suddenly fainted."Liliana!"Charles rushed over and wrapped Liliana in a tight hug, but his eyes quickly darted to Hayes and Savannah. "Now that Sean is safe, Sean's fate is no longer Liliana's concern, nor ours," he declared, speaking for the Hoffman family.With those words, Charles carried Liliana away. Saxon was tugged along by Linda. "Saxon, you should check on her. The young lady seemed off to me. She's been hiding her pain. Besides the wound on her shoulder, I think she breathed in a lot of smoke."Saxon's eyes shimmered for a moment. "Yeah, I'm aware."Liliana had been pushing through
"Charles, you…""Stop it!" Hayes was taken aback by Savannah suddenly slapping Liliana. He did not particularly like or dislike Liliana, but she was part of the Hoffman family, and their family commanded much respect. Besides, Noelle was still Charles's wife, and they had to be careful about their actions.Hayes turned to Charles. "I'm sorry, my wife acted without thinking. But what in the world happened today?"Hayes had been told that his son was hurt, but he did not know the details. When he arrived and saw Liliana was there and injured too, Hayes and Savannah could not help but think that Liliana must be connected to Sean's injury.Charles gave a sharp look. "It was Joanna's doing.""Joanna? No, that can't be!" Savannah was shocked to hear the name Joanna, and she quickly objected, "Joanna is such a sweet girl, she couldn't possibly...""Oh, sweet indeed!"Liliana, who had been silent until then, finally spoke. She narrowed her eyes and stood up, ignoring the pain from her w
"Liliana!""Get up quickly!" Liliana used all her strength to pull Sean up from the ground. "Can you walk?""Uh-huh!" Sean had been hit by a falling piece of wood on his leg when he tried to push Liliana out earlier. That was why he could not get out in time and could only hear Liliana's loud calls from outside.He had wished so badly for Liliana to leave quickly, but she had come back for him.Sean bit down hard and pushed himself up.Even if it was hard to walk, he had to try because Liliana wanted him to stand.Liliana slung Sean's arm over her shoulder, noticing his injury. Her eyes were red with tears. "Sean, hang in there. If we both make it out today, I'll forgive you. You can ask me to do anything.""Really?" Sean's eyes sparkled, and he smiled. "Liliana, I don't want you to do anything." In his heart, he added, ‘I just want you to marry me.’"The fire is licking at our heels, and you two are still dawdling," came Charles's icy voice from up ahead. In a flash, he was be
"Sean, where are you? Didn't you just say you love me?" she cried out. "How can you leave me like this, saying you love me and then j-j-just giving up? What am I supposed to do now?"Sean, you took our child from me. How could you think I'd just forgive you? If you don't make this right, I swear I'll never forgive you," Liliana yelled outside, her voice filled with madness. Inside, the plant was engulfed in flames. Shaking from head to toe, Liliana's screams slowly turned into a whisper. She clenched her hands tight, staring blankly at the fire. "If you're gone, what's left for me here?""Liliana!"Charles rushed over and saw Liliana moving toward the flames. He grabbed her and pulled her back. "What are you doing?"Liliana looked up, dazed, and saw Charles. She quickly stood up and grabbed his hand. "Charles, please. I'm begging you. Help me save Sean, please!"Charles's brow creased as he looked at the fiery red inferno, his fingers tensing. "Liliana, the fire's too big. Sean mi
Liliana shoved Sean aside and covered him with her body, taking a knife stab from Joanna. "Ugh..."Pain whitened Liliana's face, and blood dripped onto Sean's face. Reacting quickly, Sean rolled over, picked Liliana up in his arms, and seized Joanna's neck, twisting it hard until it cracked. Joanna's eyes bulged in disbelief as she stared at Sean."You..."She had not thought Sean would actually snap her neck. Her eyes were wide open, one hand clutching a knife, and the other holding a lighter.With her last breath, she tossed the lighter.A loud bang followed, and flames started to spread from that spot.Sean's eyes darkened as he carried Liliana and dashed for the exit. However, how could he outrun the swift spread of the fire while burdened with Liliana's weight?Liliana's eyes widened as she saw the flames creeping up behind them. She pushed Sean, urging him, "Go now, or it'll be too late!"However, Sean's eyes turned a deep red with emotion. "Liliana, I won't let go of you