No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 1563

Eleanor was truly in pain. A heavy, pulling ache settled deep in her pelvis. The recent stress had likely thrown her hormones out of balance, leaving her cycle in complete disarray.

A few minutes into the drive, Ian's voice broke the silence. "Don't let what those reporters said get to you."

Eleanor didn't look back, only offering a soft, noncommittal hum.

Ian's grip on the steering wheel tightened. He took a deep breath, deciding to confront the issue head-on. "If you have any questions about Vanessa Shannon, ask me. I promise I'll answer everything. No more secrets."

Eleanor remained silent. She clearly didn't want to talk about it.

"I'm sorry. Whatever my reasons were back then, my actions hurt you. I let you suffer through public scrutiny and pain. I have no right to ask for your forgiveness, but I will spend the rest of my life making it up to you." Ian offered no excuses. He owned every single one of his past mistakes.

"Just don't bring her up anymore," Eleanor finally said, turning to face the window.

A flash of deep regret crossed Ian's eyes. "Alright. I won't."

The car pulled into the upscale neighborhood and parked smoothly in front of her house.

Ian stepped out, walked around to the passenger side, and opened her door, offering a steadying hand as she climbed out.

Eleanor slipped off his jacket and handed it back to him. "You should go home and rest. Don't worry about me."

As Ian took the jacket, he wrapped his arm around her shoulders, leaned down, and pressed a tender, lingering kiss to her hair.

"Okay," he whispered.

Once inside, all Eleanor wanted to do was take a hot shower and collapse into bed.

"I asked Joslyn for advice. She walked me through the recipe," Ian explained. He checked the color of the tea, turned off the heat, and ladled a small amount into a bowl, taking a quick sip to test it.

"I think it's ready."

"Let me try," Eleanor offered.

Smiling, Ian scooped up a spoonful, blew on it gently, and held it to her lips. Eleanor took a sip. It tasted exactly like the comforting brew Joslyn always made.

"Mhm. It's perfect," Eleanor said.

Ian took the bowl back, filled it halfway, and carefully placed a small spoon inside. "Careful, it's hot. Drink it slowly."

Looking down at the steaming bowl, then up at the man whose eyes were lined with exhaustion yet still entirely devoted to taking care of her, Eleanor felt a sudden lump in her throat. Her heart softened immensely.