No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 1165

"Mr. Goodwin, don't speak in such absolutes. We may need to look out for each other in the business world down the line. It's not worth ruining the goodwill between us over a woman."

"You needn't trouble yourself, Mr. Wells. If there's nothing else, I have a meeting to attend. Excuse me."

With that, Ian hung up and strode into the elevator.

Back at his villa, Walden Wells gripped his phone, his face dark. He already disliked this arrogant young man, and now, to be so blatantly disrespected—it was the first time he'd been treated with such contempt.

Just then, a soft, pliant arm wrapped around his neck. "Walden, don't be angry. You've already done more than enough for me."

Though Walden Wells was older, having weathered decades in the business world had instilled in him a competitive spirit that rivaled any young man's. Ian's curt refusal, rather than making him back down, had only stoked his desire to win.

He pulled Vanessa into his arms and patted her back gently. "Vanessa, don't you worry. Ian is just an arrogant kid who doesn't know his place. In Ashford City, there's nothing I, Walden Wells, want to do that I can't get done."

Vanessa looked at him with seductive eyes, noticing the flicker of anger in his expression from being challenged. She knew the feud between Walden and Ian was deepening. Walden's desire to free her was now also about defending his own pride and authority.

"Walden, I know you're good to me, but—Ian is so powerful, and he's the chairman of The Guild of Commerce. I'm afraid I'll drag you into this. Maybe I should just endure it."

Vanessa employed a strategic retreat, her voice laced with grievance and concern.

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