Chapter 714
Vanessa didn’t even have an official place in the family yet, and already she was acting jealous! That’s why Serena insisted her brother should get the marriage license first, then hold the ceremony. At least then, things would be clear.
Gina circled back to what had just happened, her expression turning serious. “In any case, don’t bring any of this up to Evelyn. If it has to be said, let your brother talk to her himself. There’s no need to hurt her feelings p>
Serena huffed. “Oh, but what about Eleanor? She can go ahead and find a new stepdad for Evelyn, but my brother can’t have the right to find her a stepmom p>
“Wait-Eleanor’s seeing Xavier now?” Gina was startled, surprised things had escalated so quickly.
Serena’s tone was sour. “And Xavier’s not the only one! Who knows how many men she’s really dating p>
Gina just sighed. “Eleanor’s single now. However many people she wants to date, that’s her business p>
“Then she shouldn’t keep bossing my brother around! He’s her ex-husband, not some errand boy she can summon whenever she pleases p>
“If he doesn’t mind, why do you care so much?” Gina shot her a look. “You’re always worrying about your brother. But when I asked you to go on that blind date last week, you couldn’t be bothered p>
Serena remembered the guy her mother had tried to set her up with-he couldn’t even compare to Xavier. As if she’d ever be interested.
“Mom, please stop. I won’t settle for anyone but Xavier.” Tossing her hair, Serena stormed off to her room.
Gina shook her head in exasperation. If only the Vaughn family had shown any interest in Serena, she’d have arranged that match long ago.
The grand ballroom of the Ambassador Hotel’s Building Three was already aglow by early evening, the massive crystal chandeliers casting a dazzling light across the space. As Eleanor entered with the other guests for the evening, she couldn’t help but draw a quiet breath.
The head table was draped in deep blue silk embroidered with the national crest, gleaming gold-rimmed place settings arranged with precision. A stunning floral centerpiece dominated the middle of the table.
Waiters, all in crisp, matching uniforms, moved gracefully among the arriving guests.
Just then, Garth strode in, dressed in a tailored suit with a subtle nod to tradition, and right behind him was Mansfield in full military regalia. The presence of father and son together seemed to fill the room with an unmistakable sense of authority.
Mansfield caught Eleanor’s eye with a quick, warm smile. She nodded back, polite and reserved. His expression instantly sharpened-clearly, neither of them wanted to draw any extra attention tonight.
After all, the room was filled with some of the most influential people in the country. If Eleanor stood out too much around him, it could easily backfire.
Gentle music wafted through the hall. Garth took his place at the head of the table, raising his glass. “Thank you all for joining us tonight, and for your tireless dedication to the advancement of our nation’s medical sciences p>
Everyone lifted their glasses in unison. Principal Maxwell, representing the group, replied, “Serving our country is both an honor and a duty p>
Garth’s face softened in satisfaction as he gestured for everyone to be seated. He went on to personally acknowledge the guests, pausing when his gaze landed on lan. His tone grew especially warm. “Mr. Goodwin, your recent breakthroughs in biotechnology have not gone unnoticed. The country is lucky to have such promising talent p>
“I’m always happy to contribute to the progress of science,” lan replied modestly.
“And Dr. Sutton-” Garth’s attention shifted to Eleanor. “Our nation’s medical research relies on young leaders like you p>
“Secretary, you flatter me. It’s truly my honor to do what I can for our country’s medical field.” Eleanor replied with a gracious smile.
Garth continued, “Not only is Dr. Sutton an outstanding scientist, but her humility is even more impressive p>
The extra note of praise didn’t go unnoticed, nor did the fond, almost familial smile Garth directed at Eleanor. Those nearby picked up on it right away.
lan took a sip of wine, his gaze never straying from Eleanor, a flicker of emotion passing over his face.
Mansfield, seated at Garth’s side, was watching as well, unable to hide the intensity in his eyes.
Eleanor’s eyes met Mansfield’s for a brief moment. In such a formal setting, feeling his steady gaze on her made her ears grow warm. She could feel the flush creeping up her neck.
Even from two seats away, lan noticed the faint blush on Eleanor’s ears, and a storm of emotion stirred behind his calm expression.