Chapter 23

Chapter23

Eleanor looked serious, her expression suggesting she wasn't joking, but Julian chuckled.

"Come on. I brought back a pastry chef from Paris. I think you'll love his creations," he said, guiding Eleanor forward.

As the center of attention, most eyes at the gala were on Julian. He seemed unfazed, leading Eleanor to the dessert table and handing her a delicate mini cake. He looked like a child proudly showing off his favorite treat.

While Julian ignored the stares, Eleanor couldn't. She hesitated, then took the cake. "You're being too obvious," she murmured.

Julian raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"

"You're using me as a shield, aren't you?" Eleanor said, taking a small bite.

It had been a while since she last had cake. At Carter Manor, they had personal chefs, but cakes were rarely made. Among the elite, cakes were more for show than taste, a symbol of status rather than enjoyment.

For Eleanor, who had her first taste of cake at thirteen, it was a simple pleasure. The cream melted in her mouth, sweet with a hint of citrus. Her mood lifted slightly. Julian noticed her expression soften and smiled. "You haven't changed."

"So, you're bribing me with cake?" Eleanor asked, swallowing another bite.

Julian sighed. "As expected, I can't fool you."

Eleanor glanced at Olivia, who was glaring at her with clenched teeth. Ignoring her, Eleanor turned back to Julian. "The Davenports are trying to set you up with Olivia?"

"Yeah. She's one of the options."

Eleanor focused on her cake. "She seems interested in you."

"How so?"

"Our argument made headlines today. I'm not the only one being talked about. The fact that she still came shows she's clearly interested," Eleanor said calmly.

Julian laughed. "Is that so? Then, what about you? Why are you here?"

"My friend invited me," Eleanor replied, emphasizing the word "friend."

Julian understood her implication. He handed her another cake. "I know you're married," he said. "If you're happy, I'll support you. But Eleanor, you're not happy."

His words were firm, stripping away the facade Eleanor had built. She was at a loss for words. Just then, Julian glanced over her shoulder. "Your husband is here."

Eleanor's expression shifted. She turned quickly.

Julian was right. Nathaniel had arrived, Isabella on his arm.

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