“Okay!” Evelyn didn’t press any further.
Eleanor, on the other hand, knew exactly why Serena Goodwin hadn’t come—Serena simply didn’t want to see her. Which suited Eleanor just fine; she had no desire to face Serena either.
No need for them to suffer through each other’s company.
At dinner, Grandmother Magdalen kept piling food onto Eleanor’s plate, her words laced with genuine affection and concern.
Evelyn, perched in her booster seat, basked in the double love of her grandmother and father, her little face practically glowing with happiness.
“Come on, Ellie, eat a bit more. You’re looking thinner every time I see you,” Magdalen urged warmly.
“Thank you, Grandma. You should eat too,” Eleanor replied quickly.
“Ian,” Magdalen turned to her grandson, “I’m warning you—don’t let Ellie overwork herself. Make sure she gets enough time off.”
Ian chuckled softly, lifting his tea cup. “Yes, ma’am, I know.”
But Magdalen’s tone grew more pointed. “Honestly, Ian, you have such a wonderful wife, but instead you waste your time with those…unsuitable women.”
Ian’s smile faltered. He glanced at Eleanor, his expression impossible to read.
To Eleanor, that look felt like an accusation—was he wondering if she’d said something to Magdalen to make her call Vanessa Shannon “unsuitable”?
Eleanor checked the time on her phone. “Grandma, it’s getting late. I should take Evelyn home.”
Magdalen patted her hand. “Don’t rush off yet—I have something for you.” She reached into a nearby bag and produced an elegant wooden box. “I picked out a special bracelet just for you.”
Eleanor opened the lid to find a stunning amethyst bracelet, the kind that would cost a small fortune in any boutique.
She immediately tried to refuse. “Grandma, I really can’t accept this—”

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