Chapter 17

On the way to the Principal's office, Eleanor was puzzled. "What can I do for you, Sir?" she asked. She had already planned her response to the day's events, but the Principal's unexpected appearance and his willingness to help were surprising. "Here's the thing, Miss Hampton. I have a friend who wants to see you very much. He wants to invite you to meet with us," the Principal explained. His demeanor had shifted from stern and cold to warm and welcoming. Eleanor's curiosity was piqued. "It seems the person who wants to see me is important..." As they entered the Principal's office, Eleanor noticed a tall figure standing with his back to her. The man wore a dark gray suit, exuding an air of authority. He turned around, revealing a handsome face with sharp features and piercing dark eyes. His expensive watch added to his meticulous appearance. " I am Jack Anderson," he said gently, addressing Eleanor. Eleanor was momentarily stunned. She had no recollection of this man in either of her lives. "I'm your uncle," the man continued. "Uncle?" Eleanor's mind raced. She did have an uncle, actually three of them. Amelia Hampton had lost her father as a child. At seventeen, she followed her mother into marriage, who later gave birth to three half-brothers. However, Amelia had sent these brothers to an orphanage in order to enjoy the family property alone after their parents died in a car accident. Eleanor looked at her uncle, who appeared not much older than herself, and felt a wave of emotion. Despite their difficult upbringing, her uncles had not succumbed to fate. The uncle before her, judging by his demeanor and attire, had achieved significant success. "Miss Hampton, Mr. Anderson is not only your uncle but also a major shareholder in our University," the Principal interjected with a smile, trying to ease the tension. Jack, the youngest on the board, had secretly acquired most of the company's shares. He had come across the forum post about Eleanor and discovered his niece. His eyes darkened at the thought of that post, but he quickly softened his expression to avoid alarming Eleanor. He asked gently, trying to reassure her, "Can you call me uncle?"