A gentleman nearby offered his congrattions to Eleanor as well. She smiled politely at him. “Thank you.”


    As for the man to her left, Eleanor acted as if she hadn''t heard his well-wishes at all.


    On stage, the event continued. The foundation was now presenting its next project, a campaign for environmental awareness.


    From a few seats away, Serena stared daggers into Eleanor''s back, feeling a swell of frustration. "Vanessa, just look at her-so smug, as if she''s someone important just because she donated a bit of money."


    Vanessa maintained her graceful smile. "Serena, don''t be like that. Eleanor''s contribution to scientific research is a good thing, no matter what."


    Serena merely curled her lip in disdain.


    Henry, sitting beside them, overheard Vanessa''s words and nced over with clear approval.


    As Vanessa swept back her long hair, her hand brushed Henry''s arm. He caught her eye and a faint smile yed at his lips.


    Just then, an assistant quietly approached Eleanor, leaning in and speaking in a low voice, "Miss Sutton, Mr. Vaughn would like you to join him in the lounge."


    Eleanor was only too happy to leave her currentpany and followed the assistant toward the lounge. The assistant smiled. "Mr. Vaughn would like you to rest here for a while. When the event is over, he''d like to discuss the donation with you."


    "All right," Eleanor agreed with a nod.


    An hourter, the program in the main hall concluded, and guests began to filter out.


    Eleanor checked the time just as Xavier stepped into the lounge. "Sorry to keep you waiting."


    He and Eleanor went over the details for the allocation of the research grant. By the time they finished, it was already half past eleven.


    "It''s lunchtime," Xavier said, extending an invitation. "We''re having a small celebration-would you join us? After all, you''re one of the guests of honor today." Eleanor considered it. It was about time for lunch, and she had no other ns. "Sure," she replied.


    Xavier smiled as they left the lounge together and crossed the parking lot. He insisted Eleanor ride with him, promising to bring her back after lunch.


    The celebration was held at a five-star hotel near the foundation. Eleanor didn''t ask who would be there, but as soon as she arrived, she saw five tables set up- and at one of them satn, Henry, Vanessa, and Serena.


    Eleanor''s breath caught for a moment. Xavier looked away, guilt flickering in his eyes.


    He had, in fact, arranged forn to be invited. Still, he wanted Eleanor here; some things couldn''t be avoided forever, and he wanted her to stand by his side.


    This was his decision-right or wrong.


    Since Eleanor had agreed toe, she was determined to see the meal through. She was seated next to Xavier, among the event''s most distinguished guests. Several of the men at the table, eager to make an impression, tried to offer Eleanor a few drinks in celebration, but Xavier stepped in each time.


    "She can''t drink. I''ll have a couple on her behalf-thank you for understanding," he said, standing to toast the table.


    His words weren''t loud, but everyone heard-including those at the neighboring tables.


    Serena bit her red lip, jealousy shing in her eyes as she watched Xavier speak up for Eleanor. To her, it was as good as a public deration.


    Suddenly, he stood up. "I have to go. There''s something at work."


    He walked over to Xavier''s table. "I''m heading out."


    "Leaving so soon? Not even one drink?" Xavier asked, rising as well.


    "No, I''ve got business at the office,"n replied coolly.


    He turned to Eleanor. "You need to sign the Everprosper Biotech patent contract


    at two o''clock. Don''t bete."


    Eleanor frowned slightly, lifting her teacup and taking a sip.


    Without another word,n walked away.


    "Come on,n, you''re leaving already? We just started eating!" Serena protested.


    "Serena, you all enjoy. I''ll be going as well," Vanessa said, setting down her fork and quickly grabbing her purse to follown out.


    Eleanor kept her head down as she ate, as if none of theirings and goings mattered to her in the slightest.


    After lunch, Xavier personally walked her to the car, his gaze fixed on her.


    "I owe you an apology for today," he said quietly. "I didn''t mean to make you ufortable."