lan looked at her, genuine curiosity gleaming in his eyes. "I don't completely understand your research, but could you tell me about your latest breakthrough?"

Eleanor's eyes lit up. She set down her cup, considering her words. "Our team recently obtained some groundbreaking data in animal models that validates my proposed protocol. If the subsequent preclinical studies and initial clinical trials go smoothly, we'll be able to see preliminary efficacy in vivo."

A flash of admiration crossed lan's face. He smiled. "Dr. Windsor mentioned your new theory to me. It has the potential to fundamentally change how we treat early- stage neurodegenerative conditions. It might even have a shot at a Nobel nomination."

At the mention of a Nobel nomination, Eleanor pressed her lips together. The sheer weight of those words was enough to make any researcher's heart race.

It represented not just personal glory, but the highest possible validation of one's life's work.

"I hope it's possible," Eleanor said, looking up with a radiant gleam in her eyes. lan's breath hitched slightly. "I believe you can," he said, his voice low and resolute. "Not just a nomination you could actually win it."

Eleanor met his gaze, seeing the naked encouragement there, and a rush of warmth flooded her chest. Even though she hadn't accepted his resources to pave her way this time, the pure, unadulterated recognition from him meant the world to her.

"There are still many hurdles ahead," she said, regaining her composure. "The data needs to be repeatedly verified, and the paper has to survive the most rigorous peer review."

"Focus entirely on your work. Leave everything else to me," lan said, his dark, predatory gaze locking onto hers. "Whatever support you need-funding, equipment, or partnerships—just say the word. I've got your back."

Eleanor couldn't help but smile. "If I take all these favors from you, I'll never be able to repay them."

He chuckled. "Giving my daughter a brilliant, Nobel-winning mother-isn't that the best repayment? She would be immensely proud and honored for the rest of her life."

A lump formed in Eleanor's throat. She lowered her gaze, suddenly fighting back tears.

lan was incredibly perceptive; with just a few words, he had struck the softest yet most resilient part of her heart.

Her father had been a dedicated

researche

working for the

betterment of humanity, and as his daughter she had always felba

deep, abiding pride. fo FindNovel.net

That kind of spiritual wealth was far more precious than any money or material possessions.

If she could reach those heights, she could leave that same legacy of inspiration for her own daughter.

Sensing her sudden shift in emotion, lan spoke softly. "Sorry, I shouldn't put so much pressure on you. Just do your best. No matter how far you go, you've already made our daughter incredibly proud,

Eleanor lifted her head, her eyes clearing. "Thank you."

A stray beam of sunlight filtered in, catching in lan's eyes. His smile reached deep

into his gaze—profound, sexy, and utterly captivating.

The waiter began bringing out their

food. The exquisite dishes stirred their appetites, and Eleanor, not wanting to linger on overly

emotional topics, was relieved when

lan smoothly changed the subject to his recent investments in the

automotive industry.

That prompted her to bring up the time he had fired an entire engineering team. lan blinked, clearly having forgotten about it. "How did you know about that?" Eleanor simply replied, "I overheard people talking about it in the restroom."