Chapter 1368
He turned his gaze back to Eleanor, a sense of urgency in his eyes. “Eleanor, my aunt’s research fund has been looking for a worthy project. There are so many patients like my mother. I believe in you and your team. I hope you can give patients like her a reason to hope for the future.”
A cool evening breeze swept by. Eleanor looked at the expectation in Xavier’s eyes and was deeply moved.
“Xavier, thank you for your trust in me. But this research is still in its very early, exploratory stages. It’s full of uncertainties, and the return on investment will be a long time coming-you need to be prepared for that.”
“I know,” Xavier nodded. “I understand what you’re saying. But even if your research only takes one small step forward, for those waiting in the dark, it’s still a glimmer of hope.”
Xavier’s gaze was open and sincere, free of any ulterior motives, filled only with trust in her.
Eleanor met his eyes, knowing this was more than just funding-it was a responsibility.
“Alright,” she finally said with a solemn nod. “I will do my absolute best. I hope I won’t let you down.”
A smile appeared on Xavier’s face. “I heard lan established a dedicated research fund for you through The Guild of Commerce. I’ll make the donation through them as well.”
After their conversation, the two walked back toward lan. Xavier took Vivian’s hand and said, “We’ll be heading out.”
In a nearby car, Magdalen and Gina were waiting. Once Xavier had left, they got out and came over.
“Great-grandma! Grandma!” Evelyn cried, running toward them.
lan looked at Eleanor. “All done?”
“Yes,” Eleanor nodded, not elaborating.
lan didn’t press for details. When Eleanor saw the old woman approaching, she went to meet her. “Grandma!”
“Evelyn was absolutely wonderful today! I never imagined such a little person could dance so well,” Magdalen said, her face beaming with pride.
“Today is Evelyn’s kindergarten graduation. Let’s all go out for dinner tonight to celebrate!” the matriarch suggested.
Eleanor hesitated for a moment. She knew she would be away for a week for her studies, and during that time, Evelyn would be staying at Goodwin Manor with lan. She smiled. “Okay, Grandma. This dinner will be my treat.”
“That works for me,” the old woman said, nodding happily.
A hint of a smile crossed lan’s eyes.
Later, the group went to a high-end restaurant nearby. The atmosphere was elegant, and they ordered light dishes specifically to suit the tastes of the matriarch and Evelyn.
Talk turned to Eleanor’s upcoming week-long trip. She took the initiative to say to Magdalen and Gina, “Grandma, Gina, I’ll have to trouble you to look after Evelyn for the next week. I’ll be back as soon as I can.”
“Ellie, don’t you worry about a thing! Leave Evelyn to us and focus on your studies!” Serena jumped in to answer.
“Yes, don’t worry. We’ll take great care of Evelyn,” Gina added with a nod.
Magdalen reassured her, “And lan will be there to look after her, too. You go with peace of mind.”
Eleanor nodded. When it came to this, she had no choice but to entrust her to the Goodwins.
After dinner, lan rode home in Eleanor’s car, while Serena drove her mother and grandmother back to Goodwin Manor.
“My private jet is flying to Montclair the day after tomorrow morning. I have a client to meet. Want to come along?” lan asked Eleanor.
Eleanor met his gaze in the rearview mirror. “No, thank you. I’ve already bought a ticket.”
“I know. I had Gavin Young check.
You bought an economy class ticket. Since I’m going that way anyway, and my plane will be empty, you might as well use it. It’s a long
flight over ten hours. You can get
some proper rest on the plane and be fresh for your conference.”
Eleanor was taken aback. It was true; she had booked her flight so late that economy was all that was left.
Eleanor fell silent, considering his
offer. She had to admit, having a
more comfortable environment to
rest would be beneficial for the intense week of learning and networking ahead.
“Are you sure you’re flying the day after tomorrow morning?” Eleanor asked, checking again through the rearview mirror.
lan nodded. “Yes, I’m sure.”
Eleanor thought for a moment longer before finally nodding. “Alright then… thank you.”
Hearing her finally agree, he replied naturally, “It’s no trouble. We’ll drop Evelyn off at Goodwin Manor together in the morning and then head to the airport.”