I will protect Alexander.

Evelyn released a heavy sigh, her eyes fixed on Alexander. "The guilt still haunts me. I couldn't protect him back then. He was framed, trapped in that car accident, and I was utterly helpless to intervene. Later, to shield himself—and to keep me from being dragged deeper into the mess—he spent years pretending to be disabled. All of it happened because I was powerless."

Alexander, already uncomfortable with the conversation veering towards his past humiliations, tensed the moment Evelyn mentioned herself. A deep frown etched itself onto his forehead. "Grandma, you mustn't think like that. None of it was your fault. Please, don't say such things."

Eleanor's expression turned grave, her fingers unconsciously tracing the border of the photo album.

But Evelyn's face remained clouded with remorse. "I've always felt I failed him," she confessed. "That's precisely why I've been so desperate for him to settle down, to build his own family. He has endured far too much. As his grandmother, my greatest fear is him facing this world alone."

A soft, grateful smile touched her lips as she turned to Eleanor, warmly taking her hand. "Thankfully, fate seems to have finally heard my prayers and brought you to him. I truly couldn't have asked for a more perfect granddaughter-in-law."

The profound sincerity in Evelyn's voice was unmistakable. Eleanor met her gaze with steady resolve. "Evelyn, I give you my word—I will protect Alexander."

Together, Evelyn and Eleanor finished turning the pages of the substantial photo album.

Hours slipped by as they continued to talk, their bond strengthening with each shared story and exchanged confidence.

Alexander, observing from the sidelines, realized with a touch of wry amusement that he had been completely forgotten.

As night settled in, Eleanor suddenly remembered something and addressed the servant. "Please prepare the guest room upstairs. It has a wonderful view and a private balcony. I'm sure Evelyn will appreciate it."

Before the servant could respond, Evelyn gently waved a hand. "That won't be necessary, dear. I won't be staying here tonight. I'll be going to Crestwood Manor."

Her announcement took both Eleanor and Alexander by surprise.

Eleanor's brows furrowed in concern. "Evelyn, why? You're home now. Why would you choose a nursing home over staying with family?"

Alexander, equally opposed to the idea, immediately added his voice. "Grandma, no nursing home, no matter how luxurious, can compare to being here with your family. Let the servants prepare the room. It will be ready in moments."

Evelyn's heart warmed at their earnest pleas, but her decision was firm. "I appreciate your kindness, truly. But everything has already been arranged. Before I returned, I made plans to reside there. My accommodations are all set."

She paused briefly, then offered them both a playful, knowing smile. "Besides, I wouldn't want to intrude on your newlywed life. I think I'd much prefer going to the manor, meeting new companions, and simply enjoying my peace there."

Despite their persistent attempts to change her mind, Evelyn remained unwavering in her choice to stay at Crestwood Manor.

Left with no alternative, Alexander and Eleanor eventually acquiesced, though both silently resolved to find a way to bring her home properly soon.

Not long after, Evelyn departed.

That night, even after retiring to bed, Eleanor couldn't shake off a persistent feeling of reluctance.

Turning to Alexander, she murmured softly, "Alexander, I genuinely adore Evelyn. We must visit her frequently at the manor. I want to ensure she's truly content and well-cared for."

Alexander watched her, a flicker of amusement in his eyes. He couldn't help but smile at the earnestness with which she was already planning their visits.

Wordlessly, he pulled her closer into his embrace, his arm wrapping securely around her waist.

His warm breath brushed against her ear, sending an unexpected shiver coursing through her.

Suspicion dawned on her features as she instinctively tried to lean back. A faint blush colored her cheeks. "What are you doing?"