No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 1102

"Daddy, look, there's a little rabbit over there," Evelyn suddenly whispered, pointing at the grass.

Ian followed her gaze and saw a wild rabbit nibbling on the grass. He gestured for his daughter to be quiet and gently picked her up, stepping closer.

Nestled in her father's arms, Evelyn quietly watched the rabbit eat until it hopped away. "Daddy, I want to go hiking again next time," she said, still full of excitement.

"Alright. When I have time, I'll bring you hiking again," Ian replied with a warm smile.

They continued toward the summit. The higher they climbed, the steeper the trail became. Eleanor's stamina couldn't keep up with her daughter's, so she and Gavin fell behind while Ian stayed with Evelyn.

"Evelyn has amazing energy!" Gavin remarked.

"Always has been," Eleanor managed between breaths, a proud smile touching her lips. "She's always been like that."

When they finally reached the top, Eleanor was so tired she found a rock and sat down. Evelyn was playing in the grass nearby, with Gavin keeping an eye on her.

Ian walked over to Eleanor. "Tired?" he asked softly.

Eleanor looked at the view of the blue sky and white clouds and shook her head.

But her fair cheeks were flushed with a healthy pink from the exercise, and tiny beads of sweat dotted her forehead. Ian instinctively took the handkerchief he'd used for his daughter from his pocket and gently dabbed at her forehead.

The gesture startled them both.

Eleanor frowned and looked up, her eyes filled with a distinct coldness. "You don't have to. Thanks."

Ian withdrew his hand, his gaze lingering on her face. Her expression was a clear reminder to respect their boundaries and a stark reminder of their current relationship.

"Sorry," Ian said in a low voice, putting the handkerchief back in his pocket.

"Evelyn had a great time today. Thank you for arranging this," Eleanor said, looking out at the distant scenery.

On the way down the mountain, Evelyn got tired halfway and ended up on Ian's back. By the time they reached the car, she was fast asleep.

Ian got into Eleanor's car, holding the sleeping Evelyn in his arms. Eleanor was also tired; it had been a long time since she'd done such strenuous exercise. She rested her head against her hand, leaning on the car window, and gradually drifted off to sleep as well.

About ten minutes later, the car took a sharp turn, and Eleanor's head tilted sideways, landing with a soft thud on Ian's shoulder.

The unexpected contact made him freeze for a few seconds before a gentle smile touched his eyes. He subtly adjusted his posture to let her lean more comfortably.

While waiting at a long red light, Ian looked down at the sleeping face on his shoulder.

For a second there, Eleanor let her guard down completely. She looked so peaceful, it reminded me of the past.

He remembered waking up in the morning and finding her nestled in his arms, lazy and content like a child. If he stared at her for too long, she would playfully cover his eyes and grumble, "Don't look."