I Chose Me Over My Marriage novel Chapter 178

"I know you've already thought this through. There are certain things I shouldn't try to control anymore."

Eleanor offered a heartbreakingly bitter smile, her deep reluctance nearly spilling over.

"Mom believes in you. I know you'll take good care of yourself."

She stepped closer and gently wrapped the scarf around his neck, her movements tender and maternal.

"Once you leave, there will undoubtedly be a lot of rumors. Ignore them. Just remember that no matter what, you will always be a son of the Lennox Family. I can't change your father's perspective, and as for Lyra..."

She paused, slowly pulling her hands back.

"You're both adults now. I won't interfere anymore."

In the end, she had chosen to take a step back.

Leaving all the possibilities entirely in their hands.

Miles was stunned. He hadn't expected Eleanor to be so understanding.

Anticipating his shock, she patted his shoulder warmly.

"Go on."

"Mom, I..."

Before he could finish, Eleanor cut him off gently.

"I know you have your reasons for leaving. Don't worry, your father and I understand. Go on, it's late. Get some rest, and remember to come visit when you have the time."

With a final push, she guided him out the door.

The moment he stepped past the threshold of the manor, Miles couldn't help but look back one last time.

Eleanor stood on the porch, waving at him, before resolutely closing the heavy door.

He knew she couldn't bear to watch him walk away into the night, yet she forced herself to do it because she understood his burden.

He would always be endlessly grateful for being brought into the Lennox Family.

But now, he had to keep moving forward.

He slammed his fist furiously against the marble sink, a suffocating wave of resentment consuming him.

A moment later, he pulled out his phone, dialed a number, and put it on speaker.

The second the call connected, Maxwell spoke with absolute urgency.

"I've thought about your proposal."

He paused, the malice in his eyes sharpening.

"We're doing this. I want Miles' reputation completely annihilated."

The man on the other end let out a low chuckle.

"I've been waiting for this answer for a very long time."

It was an unfamiliar voice.

But if Miles had been listening, he would have found it incredibly recognizable.