Chapter 308
lan prided himself on his dignity. For Eleanor to so blatantly disregard his reputation—confessing her feelings for Xavier in public was bound to raise
eyebrows.
Vanessa tugged gently at lan’s sleeve and murmured, “lan, shall we go over and say hello p>
He drew his gaze back, his features cold and lips pressed thin. “No need p>
Vanessa smiled faintly. “You’re probably right. After all, Miss Sutton seems rather close to Mr. Vaughn these days. If we just walk over, it’ll look like we’re forcing ourselves in p>
She deliberately emphasized the words “rather close p>
A shadow flickered in lan’s eyes, a trace of icy displeasure, but he quickly composed himself.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Juliette Grayson was occupied by a circle of distinguished guests, exchanging pleasantries. Xavier leaned toward Eleanor and spoke in a low voice, “Would you like to sit down for a bit p>
Eleanor nodded, and the two of them moved to a quiet corner where a tufted sofa awaited.
A waiter appeared at just the right moment, offering champagne. Xavier took two flutes and handed one to Eleanor.
She accepted, pausing a moment. She’d meant to say this all week-it was time.
“Mr. Vaughn, I’ve been wanting to thank you in person for what you did for Horace p>
Xavier let out a soft laugh. “No need to mention it. I just did what anyone should have p>
“But-” Eleanor looked up, meeting his gaze. “You put the lab’s interests on the line. I honestly feel bad about it p>
Seeing the guilt in her eyes, Xavier’s expression grew serious. “I didn’t do it just for you, Eleanor. It was about the long-term future of the lab as well. Handling it this way—this was the best possible outcome p>
His voice was calm, conviction ringing in every word. Eleanor fell silent.
After a moment, she said quietly, “Still, thank you p>
Xavier’s eyes softened. “If you really want to thank me, promise me one thing p>
“What is it p>
“The Vaughn Group’s anniversary gala is next week. I’d like you to come as my guest.” He leaned in slightly, anticipation lighting his features. “Will you p>
Eleanor hesitated, caught off guard, but before she could reply, a voice sounded behind her-
“Seems I’ve come at a bad time p>
Turning, Eleanor saw lan standing there-impeccably dressed in a tailored black suit, eyes dark and unreadable as he stared at the two of them.
At his side, Faye greeted Xavier with a cheerful, “Xavier, it’s been ages p>
Vanessa looked every bit the socialite tonight-her designer gown flawless, makeup perfect, exuding effortless poise.
“lan, you made it,” Xavier said, rising to greet him, his tone as calm as ever. Eleanor glanced up and met lan’s gaze.
His eyes, usually so clear, looked fathomless now, swirling with emotions she couldn’t quite place.
But one thing she knew for sure.
He was angry.
She understood exactly why-lan hated seeing her get close to Xavier, hated her stepping into his social circles.
Eleanor dropped her gaze and turned to Xavier. “Excuse me, I need to use the ladies’ room p>
As soon as she left, the atmosphere between the two men turned tense. Just then, Henry Holt strolled over, all easy charm, throwing an arm around each of their shoulders. “Well, would you look at that the three of us together again p>
Henry’s arrival smoothed the tension, if only a little.
Vanessa chimed in, “Henry, it’s been too long p>
“Miss Shannon, you’re looking even more stunning tonight,” Henry said, giving her an appreciative once-over.
Vanessa tossed her hair with a playful smile. “Do I ever have an off night?” Henry grinned. “Never. You’re a goddess every night, and don’t you forget it p>
Vanessa laughed, the tension momentarily dispelled. “Don’t make me laugh, Henry p>
Noticing his two silent friends, Henry quickly interjected, “Tonight, we only talk about wine-no business, no drama. Agreed? Now, let’s have a real drink p>
Xavier clinked glasses with him. “Deal. We’ll catch up properly another time. Tonight, we drink p>
Vanessa’s resentment simmered beneath her flawless exterior. Ever since Eleanor appeared, the whole dynamic of their group had shifted.
She sipped her champagne, eyes darting between lan and Xavier.
Henry, ever the peacemaker, added, “This is Mrs. Grayson’s charity ball. Let’s make sure we do her proud. I expect you all to pick up a few treasures at the auction later p>
Xavier smiled, raising his glass. “To a good cause p>
lan’s expression remained indifferent as he traced the rim of his glass, but his gaze drifted, almost unconsciously, toward the direction Eleanor had gone.
Vanessa leaned in and said softly, “lan, there’s an antique at the auction tonight I think your grandmother would love p>
He gave a noncommittal “Mm,” not offering more.
Henry arched a brow, teasing, “Miss Shannon, if you see something you want, just say the word. I’ll bid for it p>
Vanessa gave him a mock glare and a coy smile. “Don’t spoil me, Henry p>
He laughed heartily.
Setting down her champagne, Vanessa turned and made her way toward the restrooms. In the corridor, she ran right into Eleanor.
Vanessa stopped, her red lips curling, heels clicking to a halt as she looked Eleanor up and down with perfect poise. “Eleanor, do you really think Xavier’s interested in you p>
Eleanor frowned.
Vanessa gave a cold, disdainful laugh. “You’re nothing more than a distraction-a toy caught up in a contest between men. If you’re smart, you’ll stay away from Xavier. Otherwise… you won’t even realize you’ve been played until it’s too late p>