Chapter 102: Elena Wiped the Water from Her Hands and Opened the Envelope

Elena wiped the water from her hands and opened the envelope. Inside were five crisp hundred-dollar bills neatly folded. She raised an eyebrow in surprise—she hadn’t expected Adrian to have saved up so much money. With a light flick of her fingers, she tucked the bills back inside and slid the envelope toward him.

"I can’t take this," she said softly but firmly. "Nathaniel’s family has already given me more than enough as thanks. Besides, once I get to the city, I can find part-time work. I won’t starve." She wasn’t ungrateful—Adrian’s kindness touched her. But given the nature of their relationship, accepting the money didn’t feel right.

Adrian frowned and pushed the envelope back toward her. "University coursework is demanding. Don’t waste time on part-time jobs." His voice was deep and resolute. "I’m your fiancé. Providing for you is my responsibility. Once I’ve made my choice, I stand by it."

A warmth spread through Elena’s chest. In her past life, she had seen plenty of empty gestures, but Adrian’s genuine care left her at a loss. She pressed her lips together and tucked the money back into the pocket of his military uniform, giving it a light pat.

"Adrian, we agreed—this engagement can be called off at any time." She turned back to washing the dishes, the water splashing loudly. "If I spend your money now, what will I repay you with if we part ways later?"

Adrian fell silent. He stood by the stove, his tall figure casting a shadow. Elena stole a glance at him—his lips were pressed into a thin line, his eyes unreadable.

"Hey, did you hear me?" She waved a hand in front of his face.

Without a word, Adrian picked up a dishcloth and began drying the dishes beside her. His long, well-defined fingers moved with the same precision as when he handled equipment on the training field.

Elena sighed inwardly. When this man went quiet, it was more unsettling than when he was angry.

By the time the kitchen was cleaned up, Helen and her family had tactfully excused themselves. Before leaving, Emily shot Elena a teasing look, making her stomp her foot in annoyance.

"I’ll take you to your sister’s place tomorrow," Adrian said suddenly.

"No need!" Elena waved her hands dismissively. "Your unit has strict rules. Don’t keep taking leave." When he looked like he might argue, she added with a half-joking tone, "Don’t worry, I’m not a child. I won’t get lost."

Adrian didn’t insist. Silently, he fetched water for her and swept the courtyard. Before leaving, he gave her a long look—one so complicated it made her heart skip a beat. Why did it feel like she was the one who had wronged him?

As night deepened, Emily brought over a hot meal. "You’ll need to catch the early bus tomorrow. No need to cook tonight," the girl said cheerfully as she set out the dishes.

Elena thanked her, ate quickly, and lay down. In the darkness, she stared at the ceiling, Adrian’s meaningful gaze replaying in her mind. After tossing and turning, she forced herself to stop thinking about it. Tomorrow, she would finally see her sister—that was what truly mattered.

In her past life, her sister had fallen off a cliff while searching for her. This time, Elena would make sure her sister lived happily and safely. The thought filled her with both sorrow and warmth, and before she knew it, she drifted into sleep.

Outside, a full moon hung quietly above the treetops.