Gina's face froze for a moment before she turned to her daughter. "Are you telling me Eleanor and Xavier are actually together?"

Serena replied with a sulky edge, "I think they've been together for ages."

Gina let out a weary sigh. She had always hoped Serena would marry Xavier- their families had known each other for years, and it would have strengthened both sides. But now, the Vaughns clearly preferred Eleanor. Gina had nothing left

to say.

Because of all this, she and Mrs. Vaughn hadn't spoken much lately.

Magdalen, surprised, turned to Gina. "Xavier? Isn't that the Vaughn boy?"

"Yes, Henrietta's son," Gina confirmed.

Magdalen's interest was piqued. "Weren't we just talking about arranging a match between Serena and him?"

At that, Serena shot up from her seat, storming out of the living room and up the stairs.

Magdalen watched her granddaughter go, baffled. "What's gotten into her now?"

Gina turned to her mother-in-law. "Mom, maybe you should let the younger ones sort out their own business."

Magdalen, who was getting on in years, didn't have the energy to keep up with all the drama. Her mind drifted back to Eleanor's recent award-she could still picture the moment Eleanor accepted her prize on stage. Her grandson had attended the ceremony too; surely he'd seen Eleanor's talent for himself.

She wondered if he'd ever consider getting back together with Eleanor. Meanwhile, the live broadcast of Eleanor's award ceremony was playing on every screen across Meridian Dynamics' offices. In the break room, Faye sat clutching her coffee, watching as the footage ended. Around her, coworkers buzzed with excitement over Eleanor's poised appearance.

"She looks incredible on camera! That bone structure, seriously."

"And her style—she really knows how to dress."

"Honestly, her looks are the least of it. The real story is the award she won today. That's what makes her amazing."

"Exactly! Did you see who presented the award? That's as prestigious as it gets."

Faye sat just behind the group, her grip tightening around her mug. She'd watched the ceremony from start to finish the Secretary of State himself had handed Eleanor the award. Eleanor's star was rising, and it was blinding.

She slipped out, heading back to her office and closing the door behind her. Pulling out her phone, she dialed Vanessa.

"What's up?" Vanessa answered.

"Did you see Eleanor accepting that award on the live stream? lan was at the ceremony too. Don't you feel even a little threatened?" Faye wasn't trying to provoke Vanessa—she just wanted her to do something.

"I saw it." Vanessa's voice was casual, almost dismissive.

"They're both in Kingston tonight. Aren't you worried lan might go see Eleanor?" Faye pressed.

After all, anyone would think an ex-husband and ex-wife alone in the same city- especially after six years of marriage-could be a recipe for sparks to fly again.

Vanessa gave a short, scornful laugh. "You're overthinking it. I know lan, and I know Eleanor. There's nothing between them."

Faye hesitated, wondering if maybe she really was worrying too much.

Vanessa had managed to come between Eleanor and lan's marriage after six years, and lan had protected her fiercely-he'd even let Eleanor have custody of their daughter without a fight. There was no doubt who lan loved most.

"Maybe you're right," Faye conceded. "It's just, Eleanor's become such a sensation. Even the Secretary of State handed her that award today-she's practically glowing."

Vanessa scoffed. "Do you really think lan cares about that? lan's net worth is a hundred times greater than Eleanor's research. And anyway, these awards-most of them are just for show, not real merit."

Faye thought about it. Eleanor's nomination had come from Simone, Dr. Lyman Brown, and all of Ashford Medical University-top-tier names, sure, but both professors had been college friends of Eleanor's father. There was no denying a bit of favoritism.

With that thought, Faye felt slightly better.

"Next week I'll be at the International Piano Competition," Vanessa said, her tone suddenly bright. "Guess what prize I'll take home?"

Faye could hear the confidence in Vanessa's voice and thought of lan's support behind the scenes. With lan pulling strings, any award Vanessa wanted was within reach.

"Go for the top prize-show up Eleanor for a change," Faye suggested.

"Just wait for my good news," Vanessa replied.

"But you're sure nothing will happen between lan and Eleanor in Kingston-?"

Vanessa cut her off, voice cool and steady. "Even if lan is desperate, he's not the type to settle for just anyone."

Faye finally understood-lan's needs, whatever they were, only Vanessa could satisfy.

In her own studio, Vanessa stood by the window, staring out at the city. She'd watched Eleanor's award ceremony too. Even Vanessa had to admit, Eleanor had

a captivating presence on stage-one that drew men's admiration almost effortlessly.

Still, Vanessa trusted her instincts. She'd known lan far longer than Eleanor ever had; she understood him better than anyone.

Just then, her manager Laverne walked in. "The hotel's all booked. This time, you're bringing home the gold."