Chapter 311

The evening sun cast golden hues through the grand windows of the Grant estate as Evelyn arrived with Eleanor Sinclair, Grace Monroe, and Isabelle Laurent in tow.

"Leonard, these are just small tokens of appreciation," Eleanor said gracefully, indicating the elegantly wrapped gifts on the marble coffee table.

Leonard's warm smile crinkled the corners of his eyes. "Eleanor, you shouldn't have gone to such trouble. We're family here." He gestured toward the plush sofas. "Please, make yourselves comfortable."

Eleanor settled onto the cream-colored sofa with practiced ease while Grace and Isabelle perched more cautiously on the adjacent loveseat. Isabelle's gaze wandered across the opulent decor, her fingers twitching slightly before she clasped them tightly in her lap.

Nathan stepped forward suddenly, his deep voice breaking the comfortable silence. "Mrs. Sinclair, I owe you an apology for my previous behavior. It was completely unacceptable."

Eleanor studied Nathan's contrite expression for a long moment before responding in an even tone, "Mr. Black, there's no need for formal apologies between family." The deliberate use of his surname didn't escape Leonard's notice.

Leonard smoothly redirected the conversation to lighter topics until Winston Graves announced dinner was served. The group moved to the dining room where crystal chandeliers cast soft light over the elaborate place settings.

Throughout the meal, Nathan surprised everyone by discreetly sliding Evelyn's favorite dishes toward her. Evelyn shot him a questioning glance but remained silent, assuming Leonard must have instructed this courtesy.

Eleanor, however, noticed the precision with which Nathan selected each dish - the roasted duck with cherry glaze Evelyn loved, the truffle mashed potatoes she always requested. Coincidence? Eleanor filed the observation away for later consideration.

After dessert, Leonard touched Eleanor's elbow lightly. "Would you join me in the study? There's a matter I'd like to discuss privately."

The study's rich wood paneling and leather-bound books created an atmosphere of quiet authority. Leonard offered Eleanor a drink, which she declined with a polite wave. "That seven-course dinner was more than enough," she said with a small smile.

Leonard settled into his wingback chair, choosing his words carefully. "I understand if you're still upset with Nathan. His behavior was inexcusable."

To his surprise, Eleanor shook her head. "Leonard, you're worrying unnecessarily. That matter is already in the past."

Leonard studied her composed expression before venturing, "How much do you know about Nathan and Evelyn's... arrangement?"

Eleanor met his gaze steadily. "You mean their agreement to divorce after your birthday celebration? Yes, Evelyn told me everything."