No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 1041

"But I still want to chat with Mr. Ellington!" On screen, Evelyn's adorable little face leaned in close. "This summer, I want to go to Mr. Ellington's place and catch fireflies."

"How about Mommy takes you when she has time this summer, okay?" Eleanor had no choice but to coax her daughter.

"Be a good girl, Evelyn. This summer, have your mom bring you to play at my estate, okay?" Mansfield added gently.

"Okay," Evelyn was successfully placated. "Mommy, you go have dinner with Mr. Ellington! Don't forget to bring me a present tomorrow!"

"I know, I won't forget," Eleanor promised her daughter.

After the call ended, Eleanor smiled with a mixture of helplessness and affection. "This little one's demands are getting longer and longer."

Mansfield's smiling gaze rested on her face. "Evelyn is adorable. So frank and innocent. You've raised her very well."

Eleanor sighed. "Sometimes I feel like I'm not doing enough for her. I spend so little time with her."

"But you've shown her what a strong woman looks like," Mansfield consoled her. "A mother who excels in her career gives her child the most positive influence of all."

His words warmed Eleanor's heart. Although she still felt she owed her daughter more, his sentiment was a genuine comfort.

"I'm going back to see my grandmother next week. Could I take Evelyn to my grandmother's house for a meal? I'd really like to see her too," Mansfield said, looking up at Eleanor with anticipation.

Eleanor was slightly taken aback. Given Garth Ellington's current status, even a simple dinner invitation carried more weight than it would for an ordinary family.

"Don't be nervous," Mansfield said, sensing her hesitation. "It's just a home-cooked meal. My grandmother adores you and is always praising how independent and remarkable you are." He smiled again. "You don't have to answer me right away. I still have a lot to take care of in Kingston, so my trip might be delayed anyway."

"Careful," Mansfield's deep voice rumbled by her ear, his arm still protectively around her.

Eleanor's heart was still pounding from the scare. She gasped lightly, looking down at the uneven ground while feeling the warmth and masculine presence radiating from the solid chest behind her. Realizing she was in Mansfield's arms, she instinctively tried to pull away.

Mansfield loosened his grip slightly but still reminded her gently, "There are a lot of steps around here. Watch your feet."

Eleanor was annoyed at her own carelessness, but she had been completely captivated by the beautiful scene of the eaves against the moonlit sky.

Ever the gentleman, Mansfield withdrew his hand from her waist and took a half-step back. Together, they continued their walk down the quaint, historic alley.

The lights stretched their shadows long, intertwining them on the ground. When Mansfield inadvertently noticed this, an almost imperceptible smile touched his lips.