No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 351

Eleanor Sutton had been waiting in the lounge of the boutique for most of the evening. It was close to six when she finally made her way to the nearby ballroom.

After handing her keys to the valet, Eleanor strode toward the lobby, her emerald-green gown hugging her figure with effortless grace. She hadn’t bothered with an elaborate hairstyle tonight; her long, silky hair cascaded down her back, accentuating her gentle beauty.

Each step in her heels sent the hem of her dress swaying, a rhythmic, elegant motion that drew every eye in the room.

As soon as she entered the lobby, someone waiting on a nearby sofa rose to greet her. “Eleanor.”

She paused, clutching her evening bag, surprised to see Xavier Vaughn standing there.

“Xavier? What are you doing here?” she asked, eyebrows raised.

“Waiting for you,” he replied, making no effort to hide his intentions.

He simply wanted to walk in with her. Amused, Eleanor smiled. “Alright, let’s go up together then.”

Xavier’s gaze lingered on her, a flicker of admiration passing over his face.

Tonight, Eleanor looked nothing like the scientist people knew her as—she could have passed for a movie star.

Xavier held the elevator doors open for her, his appreciation clear in his eyes. “You look different tonight.”

She smiled lightly. “Thank you. I just changed into a dress, that’s all.”

But Xavier thought she was beautiful in anything.

The ballroom doors opened and a flood of golden light spilled out. Eleanor squared her shoulders and took a steadying breath—these social events were never her strength.

Ian arrived, arm in arm with the elegantly dressed Vanessa Shannon and Henry Holt. Vanessa glided in, her striking red gown and flawless makeup drawing every gaze as she deliberately slowed her steps, basking in the attention.

Eleanor glanced over, barely lingering before turning away.

Moments later, a representative from a major foundation approached, and Xavier mentioned Eleanor’s interest in establishing a research fund.

“That’s wonderful news, Miss Sutton,” the man replied enthusiastically.

Eleanor nodded politely. “Yes, the funding will primarily support programs for young scientists.”

Her answer caught the attention of those nearby—at a business-heavy affair like tonight’s, it was rare and refreshing to hear someone speak so earnestly about academic dreams.