No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 86

He'd helped her out—subtly, but unmistakably.

Eleanor shot Vanessa a frosty glance, then strode toward her daughter.

Vanessa's smile lingered as she glanced at Xavier, the hint of surprise flickering in her eyes.

Could it be…?

Amused, Vanessa's lips curled into a sly grin. Her gaze swept over to Ian, but his expression was calm as ever, as if Xavier's little act of kindness toward Eleanor had completely escaped his notice.

As the elevator doors slid open into the lobby, Serena turned to Vanessa. "Did you drive today?" she asked.

Before Vanessa could reply, Henry, ever the gentleman, offered, "Let me give you a ride."

Vanessa's smile turned genuine. "Thank you, Mr. Holt."

"Let's go, then," Henry said as he led her outside.

Serena watched as Xavier made his way toward the exit too. She gave him a cheerful smile. "Drive safe, Xavier."

Eleanor, holding her daughter close, followed Ian toward his car.

"Hey, I'm not heading home tonight," Serena called out to her brother. "I'm meeting some friends."

"Be careful," Ian reminded her.

"I will!" Serena waved and disappeared into the night.

Eleanor looked up at Ian. "Let's just head home. Evelyn's exhausted."

Since he didn't need to drop his sister off at Goodwin Manor, Ian made no objection. On the drive back, he called his mother to let her know, then focused on the road.

Eleanor, cradling her daughter, drifted off to sleep. It was probably the end of her cycle—she always got drowsy at this time.

By the time Ian parked in the driveway, both mother and daughter were sound asleep in the back seat.

The car's soft interior light cast a warm glow over their faces—their resemblance striking in the gentle blur of sleep. Ian's eyes softened as he reached in and carefully gathered Evelyn into his arms.

Evelyn didn't fuss anymore. She yawned, and within minutes was fast asleep again.

The next morning—

Vivian called, inviting Evelyn to spend the day at her uncle's place. The moment Evelyn heard, she was bouncing with excitement, begging to go. Eleanor checked with Xavier to make sure it was convenient, and he said it was no trouble at all.

Eleanor brought her daughter over, along with Princess, their little dog. Xavier greeted them at the door in casual clothes.

"Thank you so much, Mr. Vaughn."

"I'll see you at three this afternoon?" Xavier suggested.

"That works perfectly." Eleanor's eyes softened with gratitude—not just for watching Evelyn today, but for sending Vivian to her rescue the night before.

…

Since that last interview, Faye felt like she was living under a spotlight, surrounded by curious stares and whispers. It was as if she'd become a celebrity overnight.