Chapter 1561

Eleanor maintained a flawless smile.

She was a magnetic presence in her field, naturally drawing people in and making them eager to strike up a conversation.

Although lan wanted nothing more than to march right over, he forced himself to hold back, knowing he had to respect Eleanor's social space.

Out on the balcony, Eleanor hit it off with Zachary Yale. Zachary was sharp and had a unique perspective. He had studied Eleanor's research, making their conversation effortless and perfectly in sync.

"Miss Sutton, I was wondering if we might have the opportunity to invite you to the Sanctuary City Laboratory for an academic exchange. Our team would absolutely love your guidance."

Eleanor thought about it. The Sanctuary City Laboratory was indeed a powerhouse in their field. She smiled. "I'd love to, provided the timing works out."

"That's wonderful." Zachary's face lit up with a bright smile. He quickly pulled out his phone. "Would it be alright to exchange contact info?"

Eleanor took out her phone and added him on WhatsApp.

Just then, a deep, impeccably timed voice broke in.

"Ellie."

Eleanor looked up. Ian Goodwin had appeared at her side out of nowhere. He casually slipped his arm around her waist and smiled. "And who is this?"

His tone was polite, but his posture radiated pure possessiveness.

Eleanor had no choice but to make the introductions. "This is Mr. Zachary Yale, a researcher from the Sanctuary City Laboratory."

Zachary was in complete awe of lan. "Mr. Goodwin, it's an honor to meet you."

He hurriedly added, "Miss Sutton and I were just discussing a few professional matters. I was extending an earnest invitation on behalf of our institute for her to visit us."

Having said his piece, Zachary tactfully excused himself. "I won't intrude on your evening any longer. Have a good night."

Once Zachary was out of earshot, lan looked down at the woman in his arms and raised an eyebrow. "Having a good time chatting?"

His voice was dripping with undeniable jealousy.

Eleanor sighed. "It was just a normal professional conversation."

lan rested his chin against the top of her head, his voice muffled. "I know."

He released her, his tone low and reassuring. "But I promise I won't interfere with your social life."

Right at that moment, Eleanor felt a familiar rush of heat. The sudden sensation sent a wave of panic across her face.

Her body went completely rigid as she looked at lan. "I—I need to go to the restroom."

Without another word, she turned and hurried away.

She had prepared pads in advance, but when she got to the stall, she realized a tiny bit had still managed to stain her blue dress. It wasn't painfully obvious, but it was enough to make her self-conscious.

The moment Eleanor stepped out of the restroom, she found lan waiting in the corridor. His eyes were filled with concern. "What's wrong?"

Eleanor shook her head. "Nothing."

But lan's sharp instincts had already pieced it together. "Did it start?"

Eleanor could only offer a small nod before asking, "Could I borrow your jacket for a moment?"

Understanding immediately, lan stripped off his suit jacket and draped it over her shoulders.

His tailored jacket swallowed her small frame like a large cape, falling perfectly to mid-thigh and completely erasing her worries.

"Can we leave early?" Eleanor asked.

"Yes. Go wait for me by the entrance. I'll make my excuses and be right there," lan said softly.

Eleanor nodded. She left the

banquet hall and headed for the

doors fan quickly said his goodbyeş

to a few

y elders before striding

over to join her.

He wrapped a protective arm around her as they stepped into the elevator lobby,

having already instructed the valet to bring the car around.

Just as they walked out of the lobby, a reporter seemingly appeared out of thin air, shoving a microphone forward. "Mr. Goodwin, Miss Sutton, are the rumors true Are you two getting back together?