Gwenda and Faye both raised their glasses to toast Ian, but when it was Eleanor's turn, she sat calmly, making no move to join in.
It was obvious she had no intention of toasting him at all.
An awkward silence settled over the table. Just then, Ian picked up his own glass and lifted it in Eleanor's direction. "A toast to Miss Sutton," he said with a smile.
"I'm sorry, but I don't drink," Eleanor declined without hesitation.
Ian just grinned, unfazed. "Then let's toast with tea instead!"
At that moment, his phone rang. He glanced at the screen and answered. "She fell and had to be taken to the hospital? Which one?"
Eleanor's eyes flicked toward him. Ian stood up abruptly, concern etched on his face. "My grandmother's in the hospital. I have to go."
Everyone at the table stood as Ian gathered his things. As he passed behind Eleanor, the back of his hand brushed her shoulder—almost as if by accident.
Eleanor picked up her purse and rose as well. "I need to leave too. Something's come up."
She stepped out into the hallway and spotted Ian waiting just outside. His voice was low and urgent. "Come on. Gran will want to see you."
Eleanor's concern for Magdalen was genuine. At her age, a fall was no small matter.
They left together, exchanging a quick glance as Faye and Gwenda shared a look of their own.
In the parking lot, Eleanor opened the passenger door and climbed into Ian's car. The two of them drove off toward the hospital.
—
Inside the hospital, Eleanor and Ian entered Magdalen's room together. Gina and Serena were already there, and both looked surprised to see the pair arrive side by side.
Weren't they in the middle of a divorce?
"Gran, are you all right? Where did you get hurt?" Eleanor asked, hurrying to her bedside.

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