Evelyn's heart hammered against her ribs.

Her eyes met Eleanor's across the room.

An unexpected warmth bloomed in her chest.

Her fingers instinctively tightened around Alexander's arm.

Before she could form a greeting, Eleanor's face broke into a radiant smile.

Joy illuminated the older woman's features.

Eleanor moved with surprising speed, brushing past Alexander's assistant.

She closed the distance between them, her steps light and eager.

Evelyn braced herself, assuming the affection was meant for Alexander.

She gently released Alexander's arm.

"She seems very eager to see you," Evelyn murmured softly.

Alexander, misreading the situation, opened his arms for an embrace.

It had been too long since he'd seen his grandmother.

But Eleanor sidestepped him completely.

She gave his shoulder a light, dismissive push.

"Move over, dear," she said, her tone brisk.

Her attention shifted from Alexander to Evelyn in an instant.

Eleanor's eyes softened as she took Evelyn's hands.

Her touch was surprisingly warm and reassuring.

"Oh, my dear girl!" Eleanor exclaimed, her voice full of wonder. "You are even more beautiful than I imagined. Such luminous eyes! Such flawless skin!"

Evelyn stood frozen, completely caught off guard.

The initial shock began to melt away under Eleanor's genuine warmth.

Eleanor studied her with pure, unadulterated admiration.

"What an utterly charming young woman," she declared. "So rare to find such grace these days."

She let out a deep, heartfelt sigh.

"I was abroad when I heard the most outrageous rumor that Alexander had married. I dismissed it as nonsense! But here you are, every bit the splendid bride they described."

Evelyn finally found her voice. "Eleanor...?"

"Look at you," Eleanor cooed, her smile widening. "So gracious. So polite."

The intensity of the affection was overwhelming.

Evelyn had not been prepared for such a fervent welcome.

Eleanor's approval was evident in her every expression.

She clicked her tongue affectionately.

"What a treasure you are. Putting up with my temperamental grandson cannot be easy."

Evelyn was momentarily speechless.

She quickly rallied to Alexander's defense.

"He's very kind to me, Eleanor. Always considerate."

Eleanor snorted, her skepticism clear.

"Hard to believe. You've been married for a while now, and you're still so slender. Is he not feeding you properly?"

This portrayal made Alexander bristle with irritation.

"Grandmother," he interjected, his voice tight. "Is that really what you think of me?"

Eleanor turned a stern gaze upon him.

"Given your history of scaring away every suitable girl, how can you expect me to think otherwise?"