No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 252

As Vanessa stepped down from the stage, her legs felt a little unsteady. She’d expected someone—anyone—to offer a few words of praise. Instead, it was as if she’d vanished from the room; everyone’s attention was drawn to a lively cluster of guests at the far end of the ballroom.

To Eleanor’s side of the room.

“Miss Shannon, that was beautiful. Would you like some champagne?” a young waiter asked as he passed by.

Vanessa took a glass and made her way alone to the lounge area. From her seat, she watched the others gather around Eleanor, wishing the drink in her hand were something stronger—something that might douse the burning jealousy inside her.

At first, she couldn’t quite put her finger on what was making her so uncomfortable.

It wasn’t until she glanced down at her own hands that she understood.

A pair of hands that could play piano, versus a pair that could save lives. Her own hands seemed pale and weak by comparison.

Outwardly, Vanessa kept her composure, but beneath the surface, jealousy and resentment churned—mixed with a hint of envy she would never admit.

She picked up her phone and texted Ian: “Ian, I’m not feeling well. Can you come pick me up?”

“What’s wrong?” he replied.

“I had a couple drinks at the banquet. Feeling a bit dizzy.”

“When does it end?”

“Around nine o’clock.”

“Alright.”

Seeing his final reply, Vanessa allowed herself a small, satisfied smile. Eleanor might have bested her at work, but when it came to matters of the heart, Vanessa was certain she’d always have the upper hand.

Raising her gaze, she caught sight of a man entering the hall in military dress uniform. Even the close-cropped hair did nothing to hide his striking good looks.

Vanessa felt her heart skip, curiosity piqued—who was he?

Just then, her phone rang. It was her mother calling. Sighing, she got up and slipped out to the balcony to take the call.

Just then, his phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen, visibly impatient for Eleanor’s answer.

Eleanor, caught off guard by the request, hesitated.

Mrs. Ellington noticed and gave Mansfield a playful nudge on the shoulder. “Go take care of your business. I’ll get their numbers for you later.”

“Alright, Auntie. I… I’m still with the officers upstairs, so I should get back. Thank you again.” He cast one last look at Eleanor before hurrying out.

Joy nudged Eleanor’s arm, shooting her a mischievous look.

Eleanor’s cheeks flushed with warmth.

Meanwhile, Vanessa stepped back inside from the balcony, just in time to see the handsome officer leaving. It was only logical, she thought—this was a state banquet, after all. He must be military.

A few minutes later, her phone chimed with another message from Ian: “I’m here. Text me when you’re on your way down.”

Vanessa glanced over at Eleanor, a faint, triumphant smile playing on her lips as she replied, “Will do.”