Eleanor frowned, and for a moment, Dr. James looked a little embarrassed. "Ah, I see-that''s how it is."


    The air hung heavy with awkwardness.


    Not far away, Xavier watched them over the rim of his wine ss, his gaze unreadable and intent.


    Eleanor nced up atn in disbelief. Dr. James was a respected senior in the medical field;n''s bluntness bordered on rudeness.


    She quickly stepped in with a smile. "Dr. James, perhaps we can arrange an academic discussion sometime."


    Dr. James gratefully seized the olive branch. "That sounds good," he replied with a nod.


    Eleanor was about to turn away whenn''s low voice stopped her. "Could I have a word with you? In private?"


    She paused, her tone cool. "If you have something to say, you can say it here."


    Joel leaned in, offering her an out. "I''ll wait for you by the elevator."


    Eleanor nodded and headed toward the balcony. Ian followed close behind. Outside, the night was quieter, the hush making it easier to talk.


    "So?" Eleanor crossed her arms, a hint of caution in her posture. "What is it you want to discuss?"


    Eleanor met his deep, searching eyes, her tone even. "I don''t see how that concerns you."


    He slid one hand into his pocket, the moonlight casting sharp angles across his face as he stepped closer. "I just don''t want to lose a good friend because of you."


    Eleanor was momentarily taken aback. Was this a warning—his way of protecting his circle?


    With a flick of her hair, Eleanor turned and strode away without another word.


    He watched her go, a wry smile tugging at his lips.


    Just as she reached the ballroom doors, she nearly collided with Vanessa, who had just finished a phone call.


    "Miss Sutton, you really know how to work a room," Vanessa said, lips curling into a sly smile. "Three men chasing after you in a single evening. Impressive."


    Eleanor couldn''t be bothered to argue; she tried to step around her, but Vanessa grabbed her arm.


    "Don''t be naive, Eleanor. Do you really think Xavier would ever look at you that way? If I were you, I''d stay far away from this crowd, before you make a fool of yourself."


    Eleanor shook off her grip. "My life isn''t up formentary-especially not from you."


    Vanessa watched her disappear down the hall, biting her lip. She knew Eleanor wouldn''t give up on someone like Xavier so easily.


    The next morning, everyone packed up to head back to the city. Eleanor and Joel shared a ride home.


    When she got back to her ce, Eleanor dialed Gina Quinn. She wanted her daughter toe home.


    Gina invited her over for dinner, but Eleanor politely declined.


    "I''lle by at eight to pick her up," she said.


    Around eight that evening, Eleanor pulled up outside Goodwin Manor just as a shy sports car rolled out of the driveway and stopped beside her.


    Serena Goodwin stepped out, her eyes full of resentment. Vanessa had been keeping her updated on Eleanor and Xavier these past couple of days.


    "Eleanor, wait. I have something to ask you," Serena called out angrily.


    Eleanor turned, arms folded, her voice cool. "What is it, Miss Goodwin?"


    Serena took a step forward, her voice sharp. "You''ve been trying to seduce Xavier, haven''t you?"