She started to rack her brain for a way to get out of attending. Everyone in Henry's circle knew her.

She could just imagine the looks of contempt she would receive when she walked in on Walden Wells's arm. The 'piano diva' image she had so carefully built would crumble in an instant. For her, it would be social suicide, an unbearable public execution of her character.

But if she didn't go, Walden would certainly be displeased, and she couldn't afford to lose his backing right now.

She would have to wait until the third day and come up with an excuse then.

No matter what, she had to find a way to avoid this public humiliation.

***

That evening, Eleanor arrived home at eight-thirty to find her daughter wasn't there. Joslyn told her lan had taken her down to the community playground.

Eleanor sent lan a message, asking when he was bringing their daughter back up.

[Evelyn wants you to come down for a bit. We're at the playground. Can you join us?] lan replied almost immediately.

Eleanor stared at the message, hesitated for a moment, then changed into a comfortable pair of flat shoes and went out.

The community playground was brightly lit on the early summer evening, filled with the laughter of children. From a distance, she saw Evelyn, dressed in a princess gown, playing with another little girl. Eleanor looked closer and broke into a delighted smile.

It was Vivian.

Eleanor's gaze swept across the area and settled on the nearby seating area, where three men with commanding presence stood, creating a rather eye-catching scene.

lan stood tall, radiating his usual aloof composure. Xavier was, as always, the picture of refined elegance. Beside them was Henry, dressed in casual clothes, with a flamboyant air about him. He had his hands in his pockets, looking relaxed as he teased one of the others.

The scene made Eleanor feel as if she had been transported back two years, to a

time when their inseparable trio was a common sight at all sorts of events.

Xavier was the first to spot her. His eyes met hers, and a flicker of joy at their reunion crossed his gentle features, but he restrained it, offering a warm smile instead. "Eleanor, long time no see."

"Long time no see, Xavier," Eleanor smiled back.

Beside him, Henry looked a little awkward and embarrassed. He scratched the back

of his head. "Eleanor, can we talk privately for a minute?"

Eleanor looked at Henry. "Is something wrong, Mr. Holt?"

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The formal address made Henry even more uncomfortable. He cleared his throat, shedding his usualplayful.demeanor for a moment and spoke with sincerity. "Eleanor, before... I did a lot of things wrong. I caused you trouble and hurt you, and I... I'm very sorry?"

"I'm sorry," Henry said, his gaze sincere, filled with genuine regret and self- reflection.

Eleanor had seen the news of his engagement to Selma Quigley. She knew Henry wasn't the type to meddle in others' affairs The things he had said to her were clearly the result of Vanessa pulling strings behind the scenes, misleading him.

Eleanor wasn't one to hold onto the past. She gave a faint smile. "Let's just let the past be the past. I haven't held it against you."

Henry let out a sigh of relief, though Eleanor's poise and grace only made him feel more guilty. "Eleanor, thank you for forgiving me."

"Congratulations on your marriage. I wish you a lifetime of happiness," Eleanor offered her well wishes.

Hearing her blessing, a smile returned to Henry's face. "Thanks. You should come to the reception if you have time."

Eleanor smiled and gave a polite, noncommittal reply. "Okay."