Chapter 219: Sylvia Stone Smiled Gently

"Since we're off duty, why not have lunch together? We still have work this afternoon—it won't do to go hungry." Sylvia Stone smiled gently, though her eyes remained distant.

Elena Ward pressed a hand to her empty stomach. She did need to replenish her energy. Every time she used her acupuncture skills, it drained her supernatural abilities. Without enough fuel, she'd be shivering from the cold by afternoon. She couldn't keep relying on Adrian to act as her personal heater.

"Alright, let me change first." As Elena turned, she caught the faint scoff from Valerie. "There aren't any decent restaurants around here. You'll have to make do."

"There's a car waiting outside," Sylvia said, smoothing her skirt. "There's a bistro not far from here—quiet, perfect for conversation."

A bistro? Elena's eyebrow arched. So this was meant to be a power play.

A black luxury sedan waited outside the hospital. Elena's stomach sank. So Adrian wasn't just some ordinary man who could cook and do laundry—he was the son of a high-ranking official?

The restaurant was elegantly furnished. Under the glow of crystal chandeliers, Sylvia slid the menu toward her. "Dr. Ward, what would you like?"

"You choose." Elena kept her expression neutral.

Valerie snorted. This country bumpkin probably couldn't even read the menu.

Sylvia ordered three steak meals. The moment the server left, she cut straight to the point: "Adrian never mentioned having a fiancée."

"Funny, he never mentioned his family either," Elena countered, meeting her gaze. If this woman came looking for a fight, there was no need for pretense.

"Then I'll be blunt." Sylvia lifted her teacup. "You and Adrian aren't suited for each other."

"Suited or not, that's not for outsiders to decide." Elena tapped the table lightly with her fingertips.

"Adrian's father is a district leader, and he's the favorite youngest son." Sylvia set down her cup with a sharp clink. "Do you really think you can fit into a family like that?"

The steaks arrived just then. Sylvia picked up her knife and fork with practiced grace, Valerie mimicking her movements like a poorly rehearsed performance.

"Need help?" Sylvia glanced pointedly at the untouched cutlery before Elena.

Elena calmly picked up her knife and fork. A flash of silver, and the steak was neatly divided into perfect, even pieces. She dipped a bite into the black pepper sauce, her movements fluid and effortless.

Valerie's fork clattered onto her plate. How was this possible? That village girl shouldn't know the first thing about dining etiquette!

Sylvia's eyes narrowed. The plan had just hit an unexpected snag.