The CEO’s Unspoken Love (Eleanor and Derek) novel Chapter 140

Chapter 140

Eleanor POV

I walked Margaret back to her room after dinner, my arm linked with hers as we moved slowly through the hallway. The Wells family estate had always felt imposing to me, but tonight, decorated for Christmas with evergreen garlands and twinkling lights, it

possessed a warmth I rarely associated with it:

“Thank you for coming, dear,” Margaret said, patting my hand affectionately as we reached her door. ‘It means the world to me to

have everyone together for Christmas.”

“I wouldn’t have missed it,” I replied, helping her into the armchair by her window. The snow continued to fall outside, coating the

grounds in pristine white. “You’ve always been kind to me.”

Margaret’s eyes twinkled as she looked up at me. “You know what I wish for, Eleanor? I wish you and Derek could find your way back

to each other. I’ve always thought you were perfect for him.

I felt my smile falter but quickly recovered. “Margaret, you know that’s… complicated.”

“Love always is, my dear. She reached for my hand. “Just promise me you’ll keep your heart open. That grandson of mine can be

stubborn and foolish, but when he looks at you…” She trailed off, her smile knowing.

After ensuring Margaret was comfortable and had everything she needed, I bid her goodnight and stepped back into the hallway, closing the door softly behind me. I took a deep breath, momentarily leaning against the wall. These family gatherings always

drained me emotionally, especially now with Derek’s sudden change in behavior.

“Eleanor?”

I straightened immediately at the sound of Alexander’s voice. He stood a few feet away, the warm glow of the sconces illuminating

his face. Even in the gentle light, he looked more tired than he had at dinner, the shadows under his eyes more pronounced.

“Alexander, I greeted him, summoning a smile. I was just saying goodnight to Margaret.”

I didn’t expect to see you here,” he said, taking a few steps closer. “Especially not with Derek.”

His tone wasn’t accusatory, merely curious, perhaps even a little sad. I’d always gotten along well with Alexander; during my

marriage to Derek, he’d been one of the few Wells family members who treated me with genuine kindness.

‘I wouldn’t miss seeing Margaret at Christmas,” I replied honestly. “She’s always been good to me.”

Alexander nodded, his expression softening. “Thank you for the pen, by the way. The Montblanc is beautiful.”

I felt a momentary flush of embarrassment. The gift had actually been Derek’s idea and purchase, but he had insisted I take credit

for it. You re welcome, I said, hoping my discomfort wasn’t visible. I’m glad you like it.”

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Chapter 140

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An awkward silence fell between us. In the quietness, I could hear the grandfather clock ticking from the library down the hall.

Alexander seemed to want to say something more, his eyes briefly flashing with some unreadable emotion before he masked it.

“Well, goodnight, Eleanor, he finally said, his voice gentle. “Merry Christmas.”

“Goodnight, Alexander. Merry Christmas to you too.”

We moved in opposite directions, toward our respective rooms. I walked slowly, feeling the weight of the day settle over me. The hallway seemed longer than I remembered, each step taking me closer to the solitude of my old room-and further from the

complications that awaited me tomorrow.

When I reached my door, I turned the handle and slipped inside, closing it quietly behind me. I leaned against it, eyes closed,

savoring the moment of peace.

“You look tired.

My eyes flew open at the sound of Derek’s voice. He sat in the armchair by the window, a book open in his lap. The small reading lamp cast a warm glow over him, highlighting the sharp angles of his face. He was still dressed in the clothes he’d worn at dinner,

though he’d loosened his tie and unbuttoned his collar.

“What are you doing here?” I demanded, irritation flaring. “Shouldn’t you be in your own room?”

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The CEO’s Unspoken Love