It's A Pleasure To Meet You, Eleanor

Evelyn quickly reassured the children. "That's my husband, Alexander. There's no need to be scared!"

The children looked at each other, their surprise evident.

"You're married?!" one little girl blurted out.

Another boy tugged on Evelyn's sleeve. "Is it like in the movies? With a big white dress and a cake?"

Evelyn laughed, a warm, gentle sound. "Yes, something like that."

A few of the braver kids stepped closer to Alexander, peering at him curiously.

"So you're the husband!" a boy declared, puffing out his chest.

"What's your name, mister?" a smaller girl asked shyly.

Alexander, who typically avoided children, felt a wave of impatience.

He was about to issue a sharp retort when he saw Evelyn watching him. Her expression was hopeful.

He pressed his lips together, forcing his tone to soften. "Hello."

His discomfort was still clear as the children began to cluster around his wheelchair.

Thinking quickly, Alexander signaled to his assistant. "Bring in the gifts. Now."

The assistant immediately entered, his arms laden with brightly wrapped packages. The sight of toys and treats caused an instant commotion.

The children forgot all about Alexander, rushing toward the assistant with excited shouts.

Evelyn smiled and walked over to take control of Alexander's wheelchair.

They continued down the hallway.

As the noise faded, Alexander spoke. "You know this place well."

Evelyn nodded. "I grew up here. My parents died when I was very young. Eleanor took me in. She's the director. She raised me. I owe her everything. But she's not as young as she used to be. Running this place is a lot for her. I try to help when I can."

Alexander understood immediately. Eleanor Jenkins was more than a director; she was Evelyn's mother.

A slight frown touched his lips. "My apologies. I didn't realize we were meeting someone of such importance. I brought gifts only for the children. I have nothing for Eleanor."

Evelyn gave a soft chuckle. "It's perfectly fine, Alexander. Really. Even if you had brought something, she wouldn't have accepted it. That's why I didn't mention it. Eleanor is a wonderful person. She doesn't care about formalities. Showing genuine care for the children here is the greatest gift you could give her."

Soon, they reached Eleanor's office.

Evelyn had called ahead, so Eleanor was expecting them.

"Evelyn, you're here!" Eleanor greeted her, taking both of Evelyn's hands and looking her over with a critical eye. "You've put on a bit of weight, my dear. It suits you."

Evelyn's cheeks turned pink. "Eleanor! Must you point that out?"

Eleanor smiled kindly, tapping Evelyn's nose. "You were too thin before. You look healthy now. Happy."

Her gaze then shifted to Alexander. Her eyes were wise and calm. "You must be Mr. Blackwood. Evelyn has told me so much. I'm sorry I missed your wedding."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Eleanor," Alexander replied, his voice respectful. "Please, call me Alexander."

Eleanor's smile widened. "Alright, Alexander. Let me get you some coffee."

Marrying A Secret Zillionaire: Happy Ever After