A little later, Ian sent a message:
“I’m taking Evelyn out to dinner. Want to join us?”
Eleanor replied without hesitation.
“No, thanks.”
Ian didn’t respond again. It wasn’t until five in the afternoon that he returned with Evelyn in tow.
“Mom, Dad took me to the zoo today!” Evelyn chirped happily.
Ian had spent his break with their daughter, doing what any father should. He didn’t come into the room, clearly aware that Eleanor wasn’t exactly rolling out the welcome mat for him.
That evening, Eleanor took Evelyn out for dinner at a nearby restaurant. Joslyn tagged along too, delighted to be part of their little group and clearly enjoying the change of pace.
The next morning, Joslyn stayed at the hotel with Evelyn, and Ian left Gavin there as well, just in case anything was needed.
Inside the National Grand Theater, the lights blazed brilliantly.
Eleanor arrived in an elegant gray suit—understated, sophisticated. She took her seat in the guest section reserved for leaders in medical research. In the front row, Ian sat tall and composed.
Cameras swiveled their way. Among the few women present, Eleanor stood out—young and striking, with a presence that combined the sharp brilliance of a diamond and the soft grace of a pearl.
The press lingered on her and Ian with obvious interest.
“And now, please welcome the recipient of this year’s National Prize for Advances in Science and Technology—Dr. Sutton!”
Thunderous applause erupted as Eleanor rose gracefully. Climbing the steps to the stage, she was surprised to see the guest presenting the award: none other than Secretary Ellington himself.
Her heart leaped with excitement and pride.
The ceremony was streamed live, and back at Goodwin Manor, the elderly Mrs. Goodwin watched, sighing.
“If only they could make up…”
Gina Quinn sat beside her, silent.
Serena Goodwin, however, snorted. “My brother’s not exactly hurting for exceptional women, you know.”
Magdalen shot her a sharp look. “Your brother was never really good enough for Eleanor—and now he’s got the nerve to fool around?”
“Mom, Ian’s not that kind of guy,” Gina said quietly, defending her son.
Serena scoffed. “Dating Vanessa is hardly ‘fooling around.’ And what about Eleanor? She’s been messing around with Xavier too, hasn’t she?” Her voice trembled with frustration.

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