Chapter 44

Noelle's head smacked into the back of the front seat, the pain almost bringing tears to her eyes. She let out a soft cry, propping herself up, only to frown in confusion, "What's this? It's so hard!" she said, giving it an accidental squeeze.

Charles gasped, pulling her close, his voice tense. "Stay still."

Noelle heard the edge in Charles's voice and pouted, giving him a woeful look, "Are you mad at me?"

Although Charles did not know whether to laugh or cry, he managed to keep his composure, gently patting Noelle's head. "Calm down. Let go."

"You still haven't told me what this thing is!" Noelle gave it another curious squeeze. "Why is it on you?" Her wide-eyed innocence was making it tough for Charles to keep his cool, let alone make a move.

He took a deep breath, gently pulled Noelle's hand away, and wrapped her in a comforting embrace. "Try to stay still, okay?"

As Charles rolled down the window, the chilly breeze rushed in, a welcome distraction to help him settle his racin