The sudden seriousness in Eleanor''s expression tookn by surprise. He quickly stepped aside. "Come in and talk."


    Eleanor hesitated for a moment before stepping into his home.


    The spacious living room was bright with sunlight streaming in, yet it felt cold andcked any lived-in warmth.


    "Coffee," Eleanor said, hoping it would help clear her thoughts.


    Eleanor took a sip of her coffee, gathering her thoughts. Then, she looked up. "There are some things I think we need to make clear, for both our sakes. Or rather, for yours."


    "A lot has happened since our divorce, and many misunderstandings have been cleared up. For the past two years, I''ve been very grateful for your help and support with my career, and for the care and love you''ve shown Evelyn. As her father, I am willing and hope we can always maintain this peaceful, friendly rtionship to raise her together."


    Eleanor gazed at the sunlight outside the window, paused, and then continued, "But that''s where it ends. I want us to be very clear that between us, aside from our child and necessary coborations, there will be no other possibilities. For instance, remarriage is not part of my future ns."


    Her words were sharp and direct, each one drawing a clear line between them.


    After a few seconds, he looked up, a faint smile on his lips. "Are you worried that everything I''m doing is just a way to pressure you into remarrying me one day?"


    Eleanor watched him for a moment. "You''re still young and have excellent prospects. You can build a new life


    for youf You shouldn''t waste


    your time and energy where it''s not wanted. I''m saying this so we can both move on and live better."


    "What you consider a waste, I define differently. To me, it''s the most worthwhile thing


    in my life."n''s gaze was calm and deep, as if he could see past the high walls she had built around herself.


    Eleanor frowned. Had she not been clear enough?


    "Eleanor, I understand what you''re


    saying,"n''s voice was low but distinct. "And I promise you, I will I never pressure you to remarry me. Never Everything do, whether its... the investments or my involvement with Evelyn, is my own choice. It''s what I want to do." Contént


    He looked at her withplete sincerity, his eyes showing no trace of coercion or resentment.


    "You don''t have to ept it. You can refuse, you can even draw your boundaries. just like you''re doing now. But please, don''t push me


    away Completely,"n said, his


    growing hoarse. "I''m not asking for much right now. Just to be able interact with you like a normal friend. Don''t tell me to leave."


    Aplex mix of feelings rose within Eleanor. It felt like the conversation had beenpletely pointless. He hadn''t truly heard her at all.


    "I..." Eleanor started, but ended with a sigh. "I''m not trying to tell you to leave. You''re Evelyn''s father. That will never change."


    "Good." A hint of a smile touched his deep-set eyes. "That''s enough for me."


    Eleanor stood up. "Then we''ll leave it at that. You should take your medicine."<pn nodded and stood to walk her to the door. "Thanks for the medicine."