No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 1277

Ian's hand, holding the teacup, tightened abruptly. He whipped his head around to look at Mansfield, his voice carrying an imperceptible tremor. "What did you say?"

Mansfield met his gaze calmly and offered a small smile. "Eleanor and I have talked it out. We've decided to go back to being friends. Of course, I'd rather be able to consider her my sister."

For a moment, Ian felt his heart almost stop. He took a deep breath, struggling to maintain his composure. "Was this your choice, or Eleanor's decision?"

Mansfield picked up his teacup and took a sip, looking relieved. "Some things are just meant to be. This was my choice, and it was Eleanor's decision as well. We both respect each other's feelings."

"Why are you telling me this?" Ian's voice was a bit hoarse.

Mansfield looked at him. "I don't want there to be any misunderstandings between us. And don't get me wrong—I would never try to interfere in Eleanor's relationships. What she needs is sincerity, not for anyone to play matchmaker or arrange her life."

Ian was silent for a moment before placing his teacup firmly on the table, much like the way his heart had finally settled.

"Thank you," Ian said, a note of gratitude in his voice.

"Give her time and space," Mansfield said meaningfully. "Let her figure things out for herself."

Mansfield clapped him on the shoulder. "Mr. Goodwin, go try some of my father's tea. He has several rare collections that are quite good."

Ian nodded, stood up, and walked toward the tea room.

As he stepped inside, his eyes immediately found Eleanor. She was talking quietly with Callie, her profile looking exceptionally delicate in the soft light.

Eleanor sensed someone had entered and looked up, her gaze instantly meeting Ian's.

In that one glance, Eleanor knew. Mansfield must have told him about their decision.

Ian didn't walk over to her right away. Instead, he first went to Garth's side to exchange a few pleasantries, appearing much more sober now.

Time passed, and it was soon eight-thirty. The tea gathering was nearing its end when Garth received an important call. After hanging up, he apologized, "I'm sorry, everyone, but an urgent matter has come up that I need to handle. We'll have to end it here for tonight. Please forgive me if the hospitality was lacking."

Everyone expressed their understanding. Garth clearly had something urgent to attend to. He called his son over. "Mansfield, please see our guests out for me." Then, he made a point to walk over to Eleanor and Ian. "I apologize for the poor hospitality tonight. Next time you're in Ashford City, I hope we'll have a chance to get together again."

"You're too kind, Mr. Ellington. We had a wonderful evening," Eleanor said with a smile.

Ian also nodded in acknowledgment. "Thank you for your generous hospitality, Mr. Vice President."

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