No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 1286

The car glided smoothly toward the banquet hall. The last of the sunset stretched long across the city. Eleanor had no desire to reminisce about the past. Their relationship would be built on the new foundation of their collaboration.

Ian didn't try to stir up any other topics. He understood her; she didn't want to relive their old days with him. The realization sent a hard-to-describe tightness through his chest, but it vanished as quickly as it came.

Soon, the car arrived at the hotel. An attendant stepped forward and opened the door. Ian got out first.

A manager saw him and immediately hurried over. "Mr. Goodwin, you've arrived."

Ian nodded and waited for Eleanor to exit the car.

Once she was out, they walked side-by-side up the red carpet and into the brightly lit banquet hall.

Their appearance immediately drew glances from all around.

The man was distinguished and composed, the woman elegant and intelligent. They seemed to be keeping their distance, but most people present knew they were once married.

By then, the hall was half full. A few board members were the first to greet Ian, and they showed great enthusiasm for Eleanor as well. "Dr. Sutton, a pleasure to meet you."

Eleanor calmly shook hands with the board members, her demeanor poised and respectful. Her conversation showcased her refinement.

"Dr. Sutton, I read your recent paper on neurodegenerative diseases. It was truly enlightening," a middle-aged board member praised.

Seeing his interest in her research and his specific mention of her academic work, Eleanor smiled and struck up a conversation with him.

This was precisely her purpose for being here tonight; she hoped to gain the support of The Guild of Commerce for her academic research.

How could this be? Had Eleanor and Ian's relationship recovered to the point where they could attend a banquet together?

Was Eleanor Ian's date tonight?

Vanessa felt a jolt. She was once the one standing by Ian's side, basking in the envious stares of the crowd. The Eleanor of the past was someone Ian would never have brought to such an event.

But now, the woman she had once relentlessly mocked—Eleanor—was standing beside Ian, looking so independent and dazzling, enjoying the respect and admiration of the surrounding guests.

Eleanor hadn't even dressed up extravagantly. A simple champagne-colored gown and light makeup were enough. The intellectual and calm aura she exuded effortlessly made her the center of attention.

Vanessa had also dressed to the nines tonight, her lavish gown and dazzling jewelry meant to flaunt her status. But next to Eleanor's understated elegance, it backfired.