A figure was approaching the main gate of Serenity Oaks.

Evelyn had no time to hesitate.

She immediately stood up, linking her arm with Alexander's.

She fixed a sweet, docile smile on her face and prepared to step forward to greet the visitor.

Outside Serenity Oaks, Eleanor had just stepped out of the car.

She was dressed in a comfortable, dark-colored, loose-fitting outfit.

Her silver hair was impeccably styled.

She did not appear weak or frail in the slightest.

Though her face was lined with wrinkles, her entire being radiated a powerful vitality.

Alexander's assistant, looking very anxious, hurried over to offer his arm for support.

But before his hand could even touch her, Eleanor gave him a sharp look and waved him away impatiently.

"Enough! I'm not an invalid. I don't need your help," she said firmly.

Then her expression shifted to one of eager anticipation. "Now, where is my grandson's beautiful wife? What are you all standing around for? Take me to see her immediately!"

With that, she strode forward on her own. Her steps were surprisingly quick and energetic.

The assistant panicked and rushed after her. "Mrs. Blackwood! Please, slow down! The doctor was very clear that you must not exert yourself!"

He moved directly into her path, trying to block her and calm her down.

Eleanor clicked her tongue in annoyance. She raised her walking cane threateningly. "Out of my way! Don't waste my precious time. I'm here to see my dear granddaughter-in-law!"

She swung the cane in his direction, but deliberately stopped short of actually hitting him.

The assistant shut his eyes tightly, bracing himself. He sighed in resignation. "Mrs. Blackwood, go ahead, scold me all you want! But the doctor's orders are for your own good. Even if you beat me, I cannot stand by and let you ignore medical advice!"

Eleanor kept her cane raised, but did not bring it down.

Her gaze was sharp enough to cut stone. Her breathing became slightly uneven, and her face flushed with frustration.

"You foolish boy! Did the doctor also tell you to infuriate me?" she huffed, scolding him relentlessly.

Yet, her cane never once made contact.

The standoff at the entrance continued, the tension palpable. But Eleanor's vigor seemed entirely undiminished.

Evelyn, who had just walked out with Alexander, watched the scene unfold.

She stood frozen in place, completely stunned.

This was nothing like what she had been led to expect.

Hadn't Alexander said his grandmother was in poor health? That she had been convalescing at a sanatorium abroad for years?

But the woman bantering forcefully with the assistant seemed far more robust than Evelyn herself.

Eleanor appeared far too lively and strong to be someone who needed constant rest.

Beside her, Alexander let out a soft, resigned sigh. He seemed accustomed to his grandmother's dramatic entrances.

After a moment, he finally spoke. "Grandmother, please stop harassing my assistant. He is only acting on my instructions. Give the man a break."

Eleanor immediately scowled at him. "Alexander, what nonsense are you talking? How am I harassing anyone? I am simply eager to meet my new granddaughter-in-law, and your assistant is the one creating obstacles!"

She paused, then lifted her head. Her sharp eyes instantly landed on Evelyn, who was standing beside Alexander.