Chapter 264: Nathaniel Felt His Wife's Trembling Hand

Nathaniel felt his wife's trembling hand, and fury instantly surged through him. He slammed his fist on the solid oak table with a loud bang.

Marcus Stone had already risen to his feet, casting a cold glance around the room. "Seems this meal is over. Adrian Stone, I've reserved a private room at Jade Pavilion for six tonight. Just the two of us." He gave Adrian Stone's shoulder a firm pat before turning on his heel and striding out.

His wife, Catherine, quickly stood up, offering an apologetic smile. "Mom, Dad, Adrian Stone, I'm so sorry. He's always been like this..." She shot Adrian Stone a meaningful look before hurrying after her husband.

Nathaniel Stone slumped back into his chair as if aged a decade in moments. His wife, Sylvia, gently took his hand, her voice soothing. "Don't upset yourself, dear. The children are grown—they have their own minds now."

"That ungrateful brat!" Nathaniel Stone struck the table again. "What did I do in my past life to deserve such a disgraceful son?"

Adrian Stone watched in silence. His father's high blood pressure could flare up at any moment, and saying anything now would only make things worse. His thoughts drifted to Elena—her bright, fearless eyes, the way she lived so freely and passionately.

"I'm going to change," he announced, heading upstairs.

His younger brother, Owen, rushed to intercept him. "Adrian, Valerie Mercer's coming soon—"

"There's nothing between us," Adrian Stone cut him off coldly. "Don't drag me into it again."

Owen stomped his foot in frustration. "How can you say that? Valerie Mercer's waited for you all these years—"

Nathaniel Stone watched his second son disappear upstairs, bitterness swelling in his chest. What was supposed to be a happy family reunion had turned into this mess.

Sylvia helped Nathaniel Stone upstairs to rest, murmuring reassurances. Owen followed, offering his own comfort. "Don't worry, Dad. Mom and I will take care of you."

Nathaniel Stone gave his youngest son a grateful look. At least one of his children still had sense.

Once Nathaniel Stone was settled, Sylvia pulled Owen into the hallway.

"Listen to me," she said in a hushed tone. "Stop bringing up Valerie Mercer and your brother."

Owen protested, "But Valerie Mercer—"

Sylvia's sharp eyes caught something. "Wait—do you have feelings for Valerie Mercer?"

"N-no!" Owen's face flushed instantly.

Sylvia smiled knowingly. "Good. I'll find you a better match."

Owen lowered his head, fingers twisting nervously. The hallway light stretched his shadow long and solitary against the wall.