The Cherished Wife (Noelle and Charles)

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 while, but after a chat with the crew backstage, she pieced together that Janet had pulled a fast one with the number box.

By six in the evening, the office was clearing out as everyone dashed home to switch up their workwear for party gear. Noelle, though, was still deep in project talk with Brian, their convo stretching a good thirty minutes past quitting time.

Brian caught a glimpse of the ticking clock and chuckled. "Everyone else hits the road the second the clock strikes the end of the day. What's keeping you?"

Noelle peeked at the time. "No rush. The shindig doesn't kick off until eight, and it's only half-past six. The Majestic Lounge is just a hop, skip, and a jump from here. No need to hustle." She figured it was time to wrap up and started to tidy up the blueprints. "You gonna get ready?"

"Just gotta change into my backup outfit I keep here at the office." Brian grinned, giving Noelle's attire the once-over. "What about you? Girls usually go all out for these events,

don't they? Arya jetted off ages ago!"

"I'm good. I've got a change of clothes in my car, just like you. I'll be set in no time," Noelle replied. So, we're calling it a day?"

Brian gave a nod, clearly impressed

with Noelle's vibe. She had a way about her that made her stand out from the crowd, and Brian was starting to really dig that. No wonder Charles, with his sky-high standards, had taken a shine to her. It would be weird if she was not turning heads. "You should get changed too. I'll see you downstairs in a bit, and we'll head out together."

"Sounds good!"

Noelle tidied up the blueprints, locked them away, and grabbed her bag to head down.

Ten minutes later, Brian came rushing down with his coat in hand, looking like he was in a bit of a rush. Spotting Noelle already decked out and waiting by the car, he quickly made his way over. "Sorry for the wait."

"No worries. It's only been ten minutes." Noelle gave Brian a once-over and thought to herself that he was one of those guys who got better looking the more you saw him. "You're looking sharp today."

"Really? You're looking great

yourself!" Brian noticed that Noelle

had not really changed. She had just thrown on a sleek black coat that made her look even more chic. Shall we? My ride's in the shop, so I'm som

gonna need a lift from you, Ms. Shaw."

"It would be my honor. Hop in!"