Chapter 442
Vanessa’s expression darkened, but Henry quickly explained, “lan just needs to discuss some work matters with Eleanor p>
Serena bit her lip. “What’s so important it can’t wait until later p>
Just then, a staff member ushered a line of older, distinguished guests into the front row. Clearly, those seats were already taken.
Henry led the two women to seats in the second row.
“Vanessa, are you okay?” Serena asked, her concern obvious.
Vanessa forced a smile. “I’m fine p>
“I don’t get why she gets to sit in the front row.” Serena’s voice was edged with frustration. Did Eleanor really deserve that kind of status?
“The front row’s reserved for the foundation’s board members and special guests,” Henry replied.
Vanessa let out a short, brittle laugh. “Looks like Xavier really is invested in Eleanor-he even made sure she was on the guest list for an event like this p>
Serena’s lips pressed together in a jealous frown. “Who knows, maybe she begged him for the invitation p>
Henry raised his brows in surprise and glanced toward Eleanor, suddenly wondering if there really was something going on between Xavier and her.
Up front, lan sat beside Eleanor, but she never once glanced his way—if anything, she seemed uncomfortable with him so close.
lan kept silent, while a few other guests took the opportunity to shake his hand and exchange polite greetings.
Finally, the event officially began.
The host invited Xavier onto the stage to give the opening speech. Xavier strode up with calm confidence, letting his gaze sweep across the audience before it lingered briefly on Eleanor.
“Thank you all for attending the launch of the Grayson Foundation’s Young Scholars Program,” Xavier began, his voice steady and commanding. “Today, I’m honored to announce that the foundation will be establishing the ‘Eleanor Research Scholarship,’ dedicated to supporting outstanding young scientists p>
The announcement sent a ripple of surprise through the crowd.
Eleanor’s eyes widened slightly-Xavier had never mentioned anything about this to her.
lan’s face tensed as he turned to look at Eleanor, while she stared up at Xavier on the stage.
Standing under the spotlight, Xavier held Eleanor’s gaze, a small smile playing at his lips as he gestured for her to join him. “Now, I’d like to invite Miss Sutton to the stage for a few words p>
Eleanor took a steadying breath, composed herself, and rose to her feet.
Under the bright lights, she cut an elegant figure in a simple navy sleeveless dress, poised and graceful.
lan’s expression grew unreadable as he watched Eleanor step onto the stage.
From the audience, Serena’s eyes flashed with envy. “Has Xavier lost his mind? Why would he name the scholarship after her p>
Vanessa’s feelings were equally complicated. Was Xavier really this invested in Eleanor, enough to name an entire scholarship program after her? That kind of recognition was usually reserved for world-renowned scientists.
Onstage, Eleanor’s clear, melodious voice rang out. “Thank you, Mr. Vaughn, for your support of scientific research. I’m honored to stand here and help launch this new initiative for young scholars p>
As Eleanor finished her remarks and began to step down, the host stopped her, excitement in his voice. “Wait, please! Now, may I invite Mr. Vaughn and Miss Sutton to unveil the new Young Scholars Program together p>
Xavier returned to the stage while an usher brought out a large plaque covered by a velvet cloth.
Eleanor and Xavier exchanged a warm smile. Xavier gestured. “Miss Sutton, would you do the honors p>
Eleanor nodded, lifting the cloth to reveal the scholarship amount-ten million dollars.
The crowd erupted into thunderous applause.
The host then announced, “It’s my great pleasure to reveal that the generous donor behind this scholarship is none other than Miss Eleanor Sutton herself p>
A flurry of conversation broke out among the guests, with many expressing admiration for Eleanor’s personal contribution.
Serena’s eyes widened in disbelief. “What? Eleanor donated the entire amount p>
Vanessa hadn’t expected Eleanor to pull a stunt like this for publicity—but then, with her wealth, a ten-million-dollar scholarship was hardly a stretch.
As Eleanor returned to her seat, a calm, low voice sounded beside her. “Congratulations p>