No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 429

Gavin watched as his boss stood motionless, eyes fixed on the fading silhouette of Mansfield Ellington’s SUV. He stepped forward and spoke quietly, “Mr. Goodwin, shouldn’t we be heading back too?”

Ian finally tore his gaze away, his face expressionless as he climbed into the car. Even with the air conditioning set low, he loosened his tie and gave a curt order: “Back to the office.”

Gavin understood Ian’s frustration all too well. After six years working at his side, he’d witnessed the change firsthand: he’d seen Eleanor, who once looked at Ian as if he was her entire world, and the Eleanor of today, whose eyes never lingered on him anymore.

She used to be content just to stay by Ian’s side, quietly supporting him. Now, Eleanor’s brilliance was recognized throughout the research community. Even Gavin couldn’t help but be amazed.

What man could feel good watching the woman who used to rely on him so completely climb so naturally into another man’s car?

Meanwhile, Mansfield Ellington’s SUV rolled smoothly toward the city. Evelyn, snuggled against her mother’s warm embrace, watched the scenery slip by outside and soon drifted back to sleep.

The trip had left Eleanor physically drained as well, but Mansfield Ellington’s driver was steady. Once they reached the city, he pulled up right in front of Eleanor’s home.

Evelyn stirred, blinking sleepily, and spotted Princess waiting by the door. With a squeal of delight, she ran over and scooped up the little dog. “Princess!”

The two little friends had missed each other dearly.

Eleanor turned and invited Mansfield and his driver, “Would you like to come in for some tea?”

The driver, quick on the uptake, shook his head. “I’ll pass, I’ve got things to take care of. Boss, I’ll head off now.”

With that, he hopped back into the car and drove away.

Mansfield Ellington smiled, a glint in his eye. “Are you sure it’s not an inconvenience?”

“You’ve helped me so much on this trip—I should be the one thanking you,” Eleanor insisted. She called for Joslyn to make some tea.

Joslyn’s eyes lit up when she saw their familiar, handsome guest. She hurried off to prepare the tea, secretly delighted.

Princess, meanwhile, eyed Mansfield warily. Evelyn noticed and patted the dog’s head gently. “You’re not allowed to bite Mr. Ellington, understand?”

Princess drooped her head with a plaintive little whine.

Mansfield couldn’t help but laugh at the sight. He crouched down, calling softly, “Come here, girl.” He reached out his hand in invitation.

Princess hesitated for a moment, then trotted over and accepted his affectionate strokes.

She relaxed under his big, gentle hand, whimpering contentedly. Joslyn, carrying in the tea, paused in surprise—the usually cautious Princess seemed to love every guest Eleanor brought home.

Eleanor returned from the kitchen with a plate of fresh fruit. “Have some,” she offered Mansfield.

“Thank you,” he replied, and Princess, now completely won over, came over again for more attention. He chuckled, scratching her ears.

Joslyn brought out some pastries and discreetly glanced around the living room. This officer was not only strikingly handsome but also treated Mrs. Grant so well. If something did develop between them, Joslyn thought, it wouldn’t be a bad thing at all.

After twenty minutes, Mansfield stood to leave. He could tell Eleanor was still exhausted and didn’t want to keep her from resting.

“Are you free for lunch tomorrow?” he asked as he picked up his coat.

“Wow, Evelyn’s father is so handsome!” the mother said admiringly.

Eleanor froze.

Mansfield just smiled politely. Eleanor was about to correct the misunderstanding, but the woman’s phone rang. “Sorry, I need to take this. Let the kids play for a bit!”

And just like that, Eleanor lost her chance to explain. She turned to Mansfield, apologetic. “Sorry about that—I didn’t mean for them to get the wrong idea.”

Mansfield’s lips curved upward in a playful smile. “Honestly, I don’t mind the mix-up.”

To him, it was nothing more than a harmless misunderstanding.

But for Eleanor—

After they sat down, Eleanor watched Evelyn and her friend playing together, their little heads bent close. She bit her lip and looked up at Mansfield. “Mansfield, can we talk?” she said softly. “About us.”

Mansfield’s expression sobered. He leaned in slightly. “Of course. I’m listening.”

Eleanor drew a slow breath. “Since meeting you, I’ve been so grateful for everything you’ve done for me and Evelyn. But…” She hesitated, searching for the right words. “You deserve someone better.”

“You’re an incredible woman,” Mansfield said quietly, his eyes intent.

“I’ve been through a failed marriage. My work keeps me busy, and I have a child. Especially for someone as outstanding as you…” She met his gaze, and though she didn’t finish the thought, the message was clear in her eyes.