This Is Where You Grew Up

"Is this an invitation?" Alexander's eyes sparkled, a grin tugging at his lips. "I'd say our first real date is long overdue."

He turned to the butler, his expression shifting to seriousness. "Samuel, reserve the most exclusive restaurant in Crestwood. Ensure complete privacy."

He was about to add more instructions.

Evelyn's eyes widened in alarm. "Wait! That's completely unnecessary!"

Both Alexander and Samuel looked at her, perplexed.

She sighed softly, shaking her head with a gentle smile. "I meant something casual. Simple. There's no need for such extravagance."

Booking out an entire upscale restaurant? It felt excessive.

Alexander paused, a flicker of doubt in his gaze. "Alright. Where would you prefer to go?" His voice remained steady.

Romance was unfamiliar ground for him. He had no prior relationships, let alone experience planning dates.

Even the concept of a restaurant date was something he'd learned from Sebastian. Did Evelyn dislike formal arrangements?

She hadn't anticipated his deep consideration. An idea suddenly occurred to her.

A bright smile illuminated her face. "Actually, I know the perfect place. Now that we're married, it's time you met my family."

Alexander froze, momentarily stunned.

Hadn't Evelyn been raised in an orphanage? Did she have family?

Questions swirled in his mind, but he offered a warm smile. "Alright," he agreed simply.

The destination was irrelevant. Being with Evelyn was all that mattered.

He only realized where she had brought him when the car stopped—the orphanage that was once her home.

Evelyn stepped out immediately and walked toward the entrance. She paused, her gaze fixed on the sign, a wave of nostalgia washing over her.

Behind her, Alexander's aide quietly maneuvered his wheelchair forward.

"So this is where you grew up," Alexander murmured, observing the weathered brick facade and faded lettering.

Evelyn nodded, her smile soft. "Yes. I lived here until I was fifteen. Then Charlotte and I left so I could focus on my education."

Without another word, she stepped inside, Alexander's aide following closely. Outside, playing children gradually fell silent, their laughter fading as they noticed the newcomers. They stared for a moment, then recognition dawned.

"It's Evelyn!"

"Evelyn's here!"

A chorus of excited shouts erupted as the children rushed toward her, small hands eagerly grabbing her arms. "You came back!"

A little girl clung tightly to Evelyn's hand, beaming up at her. "You were gone for so long! We missed you terribly!"

Evelyn's heart swelled with warmth seeing their joyful faces.

She gently pinched the girl's cheek, her voice tender. "I've been very busy with work, but I made time to visit now. You're not upset with me, are you?"

A playful smile touched her lips. "I brought presents to apologize!"

To the side, Alexander watched silently. The children's immediate, genuine affection for Evelyn was telling. She wasn't merely a visitor they liked. She was family.

She must have visited frequently after leaving. Their bond was too strong otherwise.

Soon, some of the children noticed Alexander nearby.

His presence was imposing, accentuated by the wheelchair.

Their excitement dimmed, replaced by hesitant curiosity.

The little girl who had spoken first pressed closer to Evelyn, clutching her sleeve. She pointed timidly toward Alexander and whispered, "Evelyn... who is that man?"