Chapter 404
When Nolan and Ryland reached the Enigma store,Eleanor and Besty were just wrapping up their shift.
The moment Besty spotted Nolan, she instinctively stepped in front of Eleanor, shielding her. Her glare was sharp as she snapped,"What are you doing here?Leave at once."
Nolan didn't even glance at her. His eyes were fixed only on Eleanor.
Besty tensed,ready to lash out, when Ryland suddenly slipped in with a mischievous grin and tugged her aside."Easy now, Betsy. Let them talk."
As Nolan moved closer, Eleanor's voice cut through the air,calm but firm.
"Nolan, the store is closed."
He brushed past her words and walked straight toward her.
"Eleanor, listen. Elora isn't pregnant with anyone's child!" His voice carried urgency as he handed her his phone,proof flashing across the screen. Eleanor's chest tightened as emotions stirred inside her.
Seizing her silence, Nolan added quickly, "Tomorrow at ten, I'll hold a press conference. I'll clear everything up. I promise no one will ever mock you because of me again."
He didn't beg for forgiveness.
He only wished for her peace, free from whispers and judgment.
Eleanor steadied herself, lifted her eyes to meet his,and said softly, "Then I wish you well."
She turned and headed out.
But as soon as the door swung open, a swarm of reporters surged forward,blocking her path.
"Mr. Stewart, are you sneaking off with Miss Warren?"
"Are you leaving your pregnant fiancée for her?"
"Miss Warren, don't you feel guilty stealing someone else's fiancé?"
Before Eleanor could react, Nolan stepped in front of her like a shield.
Facing the flashing cameras, he declared firmly,′′At ten tomorrow, the Stewart Group will hold a press conference. You'll have all your answers then."
Still, some reporters pressed harder, shoving through the crowd. "But MMr. Stewart,right now you and-"
Nolan's eyes snapped to them, cold as ice."Do you really want to test me?"
The sharp edge in his voice sent them stumbling back,clearing the way.
Eleanor stood behind him, her gaze lingering on his broad back. For a fleeting moment, she faltered.
Then she tore her eyes away and whispered, "Thank you."
Without another glance, she slipped into the waiting car.
Not far off, Besty yanked her hand free from Ryland and glared at him. "Why did you stop me? I should've thrown him out! Now look-he's brought chaos to Eleanor again!"
Ryland gave a guilty smile, rubbing the back of his neck. "Don't be angry. Nolan's got it under control.Once tomorrow's press conference is over,everything will settle."
Besty narrowed her eyes. "And you're certain he has nothing to do with Elora?"Ryland raised his hand, solemn. "On my honor and future, I swear. Nolan has no ties to her. It's all her scheme."
His sincerity softened Besty's anger.
But then he leaned in, his handsome face inching far too close.
Besty's fist landed on his chest with playful force."Back off!"
Without waiting, she spun around and walked away.
Ryland clutched his chest dramatically, grinning instead of frowning.
He jogged after her, his voice warm and teasing."Wait up, Betsy! Don't leave me behind!"