No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 997

"Ian has incredible self-control," Henry said, putting down his glass with a snort. "He knew Vanessa was manipulative, yet he had to play along, give her resources, and even watch her parade around as his 'girlfriend.' If it were me, I would have torn her to shreds long ago."

A flicker of understanding crossed Xavier's eyes. "Ian can endure more than we can. There's no doubt about that. But... he did hurt Eleanor."

Henry looked up sharply, a thought striking him. He slammed his fist on the table. "Speaking of hurting Eleanor, I'm guilty of that too."

A wave of guilt washed over Henry. He must have been possessed to have blindly believed everything Vanessa said and even spoken harshly to Eleanor.

Xavier looked at him. "Are you talking about Vivian's birthday party?"

"Yes, that night. I didn't want to bother you all, but she said she had already bought a gift and would leave right after dropping it off, so I brought her," Henry paused,懊惱道, "I'm such an idiot. I have a feeling Vanessa is the reason Ian and Eleanor got divorced."

Xavier's heart sank, and he fell silent.

"I don't know Eleanor well, but I know she loved Ian deeply. She's not the type to give up on her family easily. And Xavier, have you noticed the way Ian looks at Eleanor now? I don't think he's over her at all."

Xavier remained silent, the shadows from the lights playing across his handsome face.

Henry suddenly realized what he was saying and stopped short. He had almost forgotten that Xavier had feelings for Eleanor too.

He took a sip of his drink. "Xavier... I didn't mean to bring that up."

Xavier slowly looked up, his expression calm. He shook his head. "It's fine. Say whatever is on your mind."

Henry ran a hand through his hair. "I've said all I need to say. I think I should find a chance to apologize to Eleanor—"

A bitter smile touched Xavier's lips. He looked up at Henry. "Do you know who he is?"

Henry rubbed his nose. "Is he that important? Do I have to know who he is?"

Xavier clapped him on the shoulder, his gaze direct. "He's the Vice President's son and Mayor Ellington's nephew."

Henry was stunned. "Doesn't that mean even Ian would feel insecure around him?"

A flicker of insecurity crossed Xavier's own eyes. "He comes from a world we can't compare to."

"No wonder I've never heard of him in business or political circles. He's incredibly low-key," Henry said, amazed that Eleanor had a suitor of that caliber. It was no wonder she might fall for a man like that. Which woman wouldn't? "Xavier, is Mr. Ellington really interested in Eleanor? Does that mean Ian really has no chance?"