Chapter 365
Johansson took the file, flipped through a few pages, and his eyes lit up with genuine admiration. “This system is incredible! If we could integrate it with Ms. Sutton’s smart hotel platform, I believe this could be a revolutionary step for the entire hospitality industry p>
“I couldn’t agree more,” lan chimed in, his gaze flickering almost imperceptibly toward Eleanor. “Here’s to a successful partnership between our two companies on this project p>
Ellington had already poured the wine. Johansson was the first to raise his glass, and Eleanor followed suit. Ian clinked glasses with each of them, and the three drank together.
“With Goodwin & Co.’s Al technology at the core, this project is destined to set a new standard for the industry,” Johansson said enthusiastically.
A jolt of realization shot through Eleanor. She exchanged a quick glance with Ellington.
So the advanced Al tech provided to Johansson was actually developed by lan?
Ian simply smiled and turned to Ellington. “Mr. Ellington, would you mind taking Mr. Johansson downstairs for a few drinks p>
“Of course, Mr. Johansson, this way, please,” Ellington replied promptly.
Johansson stood up and followed Ellington out. As Eleanor made to leave as well, lan called out to her.
“Eleanor, could we talk for a moment p>
She turned to look at him.
lan lounged lazily on the sofa, his gaze narrowed as he looked at her. “You and Xavier were a bit too close tonight. That kind of behavior could cause him unnecessary trouble p>
Eleanor’s brow furrowed.
“Everyone here tonight is from our social circle. We’ve only been divorced for six months. If you and Xavier get too cozy, people will start speculating about what really happened between us p>
She cut him off with a cold laugh. “Are you worried about Xavier’s reputation, or just your own pride p>
lan’s eyes narrowed further. His long fingers tapped rhythmically on the armrest, his voice calm and measured. “I’m simply reminding you-not to give people more to gossip about at Xavier’s expense p>
Her face stiffened. As much as she hated to admit it, lan’s warning wasn’t entirely without merit.
Eleanor never cared much about her own reputation, but she wouldn’t let Xavier become the target of others’ suspicion.
lan’s gaze darkened as he slowly stood up, his tall frame looming over her. “I hope you’ll take this advice in the spirit it’s given p>
“And if I don’t?” Eleanor met his eyes, defiant. “Who I choose to spend time with is none of your business p>
He locked eyes with her stubborn stare, the tension between them thickening. After a long pause, lan’s voice was cool. “Fine. If it means nothing to you, do as you wish p>
He walked toward the door, not bothering to look back. “For what it’s worth, the Vaughn family isn’t likely to accept a woman who’s just divorced and already surrounded by rumors with Xavier p>
A sharp pang stabbed at Eleanor’s chest.
She took a deep breath, forcing down the surge of emotion as she replied icily, “That’s none of your concern p>
“I’m not belittling you. I just want you to see things clearly p>
Without another word, lan opened the door and left.
Eleanor had no desire to rejoin the gathering. She sat down, taking a moment to collect herself. A little while later, Ellington returned, holding a file. Seeing Eleanor alone, he smiled and approached her. “Ms. Sutton, could you sign this for me? I’ll take it to finalize the letter of intent with Omnistar Dynamics tomorrow p>