No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 593

After her evening shower, Eleanor settled onto the couch, catching up on the news while scrolling through the latest viral videos. Suddenly, a short clip of Vanessa at the airport popped up on her screen—shot and posted by one of Vanessa’s fans. Vanessa, dressed in a stunning, figure-hugging evening gown, was traveling with her manager, while three assistants wheeled along matching oversized suitcases—clearly she was heading overseas.

The fan’s caption read, “Wishing my goddess the best of luck—come home with the trophy!”

One of the trending tags referenced a prestigious international piano competition.

Eleanor quickly swiped to the next headline, barely giving the video a second glance. A few moments later, she saw her own name mentioned in a news update about an award she’d won. Smiling faintly, she got up to head upstairs and spend some time with her daughter.

…

The grand opening of Rhine Laboratories in York was set for the next day. Meridian Dynamics was sending Byron and Eleanor as their representatives.

Sitting in the car, Byron suddenly remembered something. “Eleanor, Mr. Goodwin won’t be able to make it tomorrow. Did I mention that?”

Eleanor blinked, then shook her head.

Byron let out a sigh, running a hand over his hair. “I’ve been so swamped lately, I can barely keep track. Just last night, I told Dr. Windsor that Mr. Goodwin couldn’t come—I was sure I’d already told you. Sorry about that!”

Eleanor had already guessed Ian’s absence had something to do with Vanessa’s trip abroad for the piano competition. Compared to that, a ribbon-cutting ceremony hardly seemed important.

Byron glanced back at her, watching for any sign of disappointment, but Eleanor just looked serenely untroubled. He figured she understood Mr. Goodwin’s priorities.

Starnova Group was sending their own representatives as well. The sign on Juliette Grayson’s lab had been swapped out for “Rhine Laboratories,” and the new name gleamed proudly on the building’s facade.

Outside, staff bustled about, making last-minute preparations for the ceremony. Eleanor made her way over to York, who was chatting with a group of local officials. Catching sight of her, he waved. “There’s champagne and appetizers inside—help yourself!”

“Thank you, Dr. Windsor.” Eleanor smiled politely and stepped inside. Byron quickly introduced her to one of Starnova Group’s engineers. The three of them were deep in conversation when Xavier strolled in, dressed in a sleek slate-gray suit, his gentle smile lighting up his face as he walked toward Eleanor.

Byron watched them from across the table; their easy rapport was like watching an old married couple.

A government official, Director Lamont—well-versed in social niceties—raised his glass and flashed a charming smile at Eleanor. “Dr. Sutton, I’ve heard so much about you! Join me for a toast to celebrate.”

Without waiting for her response, he poured a glass of beer and set it in front of her.

Byron knew Eleanor never drank.

Appearing slightly flustered, Eleanor stared at the brimming glass, still searching for a way to politely decline.

Before she could speak, Xavier’s hand reached over, his fingers resting lightly on the rim of her glass. Drawing it toward himself, he offered Director Lamont a polite smile. “I’m afraid Dr. Sutton is allergic to alcohol. She really shouldn’t drink. Allow me.” He turned to Eleanor, his expression warm. “I’ll drink this for you.”