No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 478

Joy looped her arm through Eleanor’s, insisting that Eleanor join her for a couple rounds inside. Eleanor laughed and agreed, letting herself be led along.

Out on the lawn, Vanessa dialed Serena’s number and recounted what had just happened: she’d tried to bid on the vase for Magdalen, but Eleanor had swooped in and snatched it away at the last moment.

“What? She knew you were getting it for my grandmother, and she still fought you for it?” Serena exploded on the other end of the line.

“I’d already bid six hundred thousand, but she just jumped straight to a million. She clearly didn’t want me giving that vase to Magdalen.”

“That’s outrageous! After all my grandmother’s done for her… and now she takes the one thing my grandmother loves most? What’s her problem? Honestly, when my brother divorced her, he never should’ve let her keep so many shares in the company. Now she just bullies you.” Serena’s voice softened in sympathy.

Vanessa gave a faint smile. “It’s nothing really—just a shame that I can’t give Magdalen the vase.”

“I’m telling my grandmother about this,” Serena declared. “She needs to see what Eleanor’s really like, see how fake she is behind that innocent act. Don’t let it get to you, Vanessa. My grandmother’s seen the best of everything; she won’t be fazed. Just let it go.”

Vanessa’s lips curled at the corners. This was exactly what she wanted—to have Serena take the story to Magdalen, planting the seed of disappointment in Eleanor.

Meanwhile, inside, Eleanor was chatting with Mrs. Ellington. Mrs. Ellington’s eyes shone with genuine gratitude. “You really went out of your way tonight, dear.”

She could see right through Eleanor’s bidding—knew that Eleanor was using the auction as an opportunity to make a generous donation. She’d always thought Eleanor was compassionate and kind-hearted.

She smiled. “I think he enjoys the environment he’s in now.”

Mrs. Ellington gave her a knowing smile. “Seems you know him quite well already.”

Eleanor looked momentarily startled and hurried to clarify, “Just a sense I got from working with him, Mrs. Ellington. Please don’t take it the wrong way.”

“Eleanor, my mother is so fond of you—and we appreciate not just your talent, but the person you are. Have you ever considered Mansfield? You’d make a wonderful pair.” Mrs. Ellington’s tone was gentle as she patted Eleanor’s shoulder. “Of course, no pressure.”

Just then, Vanessa swept in from the garden, clutching her purse. She caught sight of Mrs. Ellington giving Eleanor that affectionate, approving look only a beloved elder could give.