No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 364

Shona kept her smile perfectly in place. “Miss Sutton, it’s a pleasure. I’ve heard so much about you.”

Eleanor returned a polite smile. “You’re too kind, Miss Shona.”

The air grew faintly tense, the atmosphere edged with something unsaid.

Shona, of course, knew exactly who Eleanor was. Eleanor wasn’t surprised; after all, she and Xavier had landed in the gossip columns more than once due to a series of misunderstandings. Since Shona had a well-known interest in Xavier, it made sense she’d be keeping tabs on Eleanor.

Unwilling to give up so easily, Shona turned to Xavier. “Xavier, I wanted to have a word with you—if you have a moment?”

Xavier glanced at Eleanor before replying. “Sorry, but I promised to spend this evening with my date. Let’s find another time to talk.”

For the first time, Shona’s composure wavered. She forced a nod. “Alright… I won’t keep you, then.” With that, she turned away, her figure retreating, shoulders drawn in defeat.

Eleanor, still holding Xavier’s arm, was well aware that their exchange hadn’t gone unnoticed. Across the ballroom, Ian stood among the guests, his gaze lingering on them, brows furrowed in quiet contemplation.

Eleanor gently released Xavier’s arm and sighed. “Mr. Vaughn, about Miss Shona—”

Xavier cut her off, his eyes intent. “It may sound harsh, but it’s better to be upfront. Dragging things out only wastes everyone’s time. I don’t have feelings for her, and it wouldn’t be fair to either of us.” As he spoke, his gaze deepened, lingering on Eleanor as if to say he only wanted to waste time on someone he truly cared for.

Eleanor quickly looked away, lowering her eyes to avoid his.

Just then, the entrance doors opened again. Ellington personally ushered Mr. Johansson inside. Catching sight of them, Eleanor excused herself, “If you’ll excuse me.”

Wine glass in hand, she made her way across the room. Ian detached himself from the crowd as well. Ellington introduced Eleanor with perfect timing. “Mr. Johansson, this is Ms. Sutton, CEO of Vesper Joy Hotel.”

Ian looked at Eleanor. “The second floor has a private lounge. Why don’t you take Mr. Johansson up? I’ll join you in a moment.”

“I can handle the business discussion with Mr. Johansson. You take care of whatever you need to,” Eleanor replied, giving Ian a pointed look.

He smiled coolly. “I think Mr. Johansson would appreciate hearing from everyone involved.”

Ellington took the lead, arranging for them to settle into the VIP lounge.

Inside, Eleanor and Ellington began discussing the project with Johansson. Five minutes later, Ian entered with a file in hand.

“Sorry—something came up unexpectedly.” He handed the folder to Johansson. “This is our latest proposal for the smart home system. Feel free to take a look, Mr. Johansson.”