No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 1554

Eleanor was awakened by the sound of birds chirping outside the window.

As her senses slowly returned, she opened her eyes. Her vision was slightly blurry, but she could see the early morning light filtering through the curtains. To her absolute shock, she realized her head was resting squarely on Ian's lap.

His suit jacket was draped over her, while Ian was leaning back against the sofa. His head was tilted slightly to the side, resting against his own arm, his eyes closed in what looked like a deep sleep.

The morning light cast a striking contrast of shadows across his handsome features.

His other hand was draped loosely across her waist in a protective hold.

It was as if he had spent the whole night making sure she wouldn't roll off the couch.

Eleanor's heart skipped a beat. She stayed perfectly still, her mind racing to piece together the events of the previous night.

She couldn't believe she had slept like a log right next to him, completely unguarded until dawn.

She shifted slightly, preparing to sit up. The moment she moved, the large hand around her waist instinctively tightened, pulling her closer toward the inside of the sofa.

Eleanor stiffened and looked up. Ian hadn't woken up; it was purely a subconscious reflex.

Her breath caught in her throat. Sleeping in that position couldn't have been comfortable for him. She decided it was best to wake him so he could go to a proper bed.

She gently pried his fingers away and sat up. As she lifted her head, she met a pair of dark, slowly opening eyes. Ian had been startled awake, the remnants of sleep still lingering in his gaze.

The moment his eyes found her, they cleared, softening with affection.

"You're awake?" he asked, his voice rough with morning gravel.

"Give me a minute to shower and change, and I'll come with you," Ian said, pushing open the connecting door to his own house.

Eleanor headed upstairs to wash her face, planning to shower and change as well.

Around seven o'clock, Eleanor came downstairs in a long-sleeved shirt and pants. She found Ian crouching by the door, playing with Princess. He was wearing a grey track suit that accentuated his long legs and tall frame. The ruthless corporate titan was gone, replaced by a refreshing, vibrant energy.

"Ready to go?" he asked, standing up. His hair was still slightly damp. Between his striking features and the morning light, he looked almost unfairly handsome.

"Yeah," Eleanor nodded, walking to the entryway to change into a comfortable pair of sneakers.

Princess let out a joyous bark and bolted out the door. She ran excited circles on the grass like an overgrown puppy. After sprinting forty feet ahead, she stopped and waited patiently for her two owners to catch up.