No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 1288

He let out a thin laugh, trying to play it off. "I was just asking. With such a large sum of money involved, it's always good to be cautious."

Ian's gaze remained fixed on Walden's face. "Questioning a Guild decision based on pure speculation, without a shred of evidence, is not only a show of distrust in me as chairman but also an insult to all the expert reviewers at The Guild of Commerce. I suggest you choose your words more carefully, Mr. Wells."

Walden's expression soured. A man in his sixties being lectured by someone not yet thirty was a blow to both his pride and his reputation.

Before he could retort, Ian continued, his voice cold. "If you continue to make baseless accusations and spread false rumors, The Guild of Commerce will reserve the right to pursue legal action."

Though not loud, his voice was firm and carried weight, earning him looks of newfound respect from the onlookers.

Vanessa bit her lip, fuming inwardly. To defend Eleanor, Ian had publicly humiliated Walden, leaving him with no graceful way to back down.

Did he really cherish Eleanor so much that a few critical words from someone else would provoke such a stern warning?

Vanessa shot a resentful glare at Eleanor.

Eleanor stood off to the side, her emotions knotted up. She couldn't pretend Ian hadn't just stepped in for her, but it also felt like a burden. She didn't want to be the cause of controversy and trouble for him.

Walden forced himself to maintain a calm facade, saying through gritted teeth, "You certainly carry yourself with authority, Mr. Goodwin. If the procedures were followed and the project is so outstanding, then I'll consider my words unsaid."

"Mr. Wells, there's some good wine over there. Care for a drink?" someone interjected, trying to smooth things over. Walden turned and walked away, and Vanessa had no choice but to follow.

Ian's low voice carried an encouraging power. His words struck her like a wake-up call.

"But—" Eleanor looked at him. "Are you sure there are no issues with the funding?"

"I can promise you every dollar is clean and by the book. There isn't a single line crossed," Ian assured her in a low tone.

The sight of Ian leaning down to speak with Eleanor caught Vanessa's eye, and her hand tightened around her wine glass. Eleanor was actually listening to Ian with such patience. What had happened between them recently?

Where was the Eleanor who had been so disgusted with Ian? The one who hated and despised him?