No More Mrs. Nice Wife (Eleanor) novel Chapter 174

With only three minutes left before the lecture began, Eleanor emerged from the restroom and spotted Ian just outside the auditorium, finishing a phone call. Their eyes met for a moment. Ian ended his call, looking as though he wanted to come over and say something to her.

Instead, Eleanor turned on her heel and slipped into the lounge. Ian hesitated for a second, then headed into the auditorium.

"Ellie, it's about time to go in," Joel reminded her from nearby.

Eleanor nodded, taking a moment to smooth her clothes. She'd just freshened her lipstick in the restroom, the vivid red making her lips look full and soft. With her striking features and youthful beauty, she resembled an actress about to step onto a red carpet more than a scientist preparing to give a lecture.

"Ready?" Eleanor asked Joel with a bright smile.

"You'll be great. Good luck up there," Joel replied, grinning.

"Don't worry, I promise I won't let Professor Langley down," she said cheerfully, picking up a pair of silver-rimmed glasses she'd set aside earlier. The lenses were clear—no prescription, just for effect.

Eleanor liked wearing glasses when she spoke in public; they helped her focus on the academic side of things.

Inside the auditorium, over a hundred people had gathered. The first three rows were reserved for distinguished guests; the back rows filled with representatives from top universities across the country. Scanning the room, Eleanor quickly spotted Ian—and, to her surprise, Xavier was there too.

She and Joel walked in together. Most people assumed Joel was the evening's speaker—even Ian seemed to think so.

That is, until Eleanor stepped confidently onto the stage, while Joel took his place to the side, ready to assist as a staff member.

Ian's brows knit in surprise as he watched Eleanor—now wearing glasses and a pearl-white blouse—take her place at the podium, quietly exuding poise and charisma.

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