"Ian''s the type," Henry said, looking utterly convinced, "who, once he''s made up his mind, never goes back on it—even if he regrets itter."


    Xavier stared thoughtfully out the window. "So you''re saying he''s really moved on from Eleanor?"


    Henry shook his head. "I''m not sure. But I do know, ifn still loved Eleanor, he''d never just stand by and let you pursue her."


    Xavier''s eyes narrowed as he asked, "Then why didn insist on that five-year no- remarriage use in the divorce?"


    Henry thought for a moment, then shrugged as if it were obvious. "Honestly? That was justn''s pride talking. You remember how much Eleanor loved him. She spent a year taking care of him while he was in thata-he only married her because of that. But she''s the one who asked for the divorce." He took a sip of his coffee and went on, "You thinkn would just let her go that easily?"


    "So you believe the five-year use was justn''s way of punishing her?"


    "What else? You don''t seriously think he can''t let her go, do you?"


    Xavier didn''t answer. Lately, he couldn''t read his old friend at all—couldn''t guess whatn was really thinking anymore.


    Was it possible thatn''s five-year use wasn''t just about getting back at Eleanor for leaving? Xavier tried to shake the thought away. He didn''t want to dig any deeper.


    Some things just bring more trouble the more you dwell on them.


    Early Thursday morning, Eleanor got a call from Simone Langley. They were expecting guests from overseas, and Simone asked her toe in as early as possible.


    "Is it Dr. Smith''s team?" Eleanor asked.


    "You knew?"


    "Yeah, we''ve been in touch by email."


    "Perfect. See you soon!"


    After dropping her daughter off at school, Eleanor drove straight to the research facility. As she pulled into the parking lot, a sleek ck Mercedes pulled up right next to her.


    Her hand paused on her purse. With a weary frown, she got out of the car.


    Eleanor reached the elevator first. As the doors began to close, she felt a flicker of relief at the thought of escaping him.


    But a strong arm blocked the doors. With a soft chime, they slid open again andn stepped inside, one hand in his pocket, utterlyposed. He nced at the button she''d pressed and didn''t bother to select another-clearly, they were headed to the same floor.


    The air in the elevator turned to ice.


    "How''s Evelyn doing?"n broke the silence, his tone surprisingly gentle.


    Eleanor turned her face away, refusing to answer.


    Unbothered,n continued, "So-does Xavier know that Mansfield Ellington is chasing after you as well?"


    There was a familiar edge of mockery in his voice, one Eleanor knew all too well.


    She gripped her handbag tighter, forcing out the words, "That''s none of your business."


    Eleanor spun toward him, fury in her eyes. "I don''t need you to remind me."


    His gaze darkened, lingering on her face for a moment. “Just a friendly warning.


    I''d hate for you to get careless and end up with awsuit on your hands."


    At that moment, the elevator dinged and the doors slid open. Ian stepped out first, leaving Eleanor standing in the chill of his words.