Chapter 288: Nolan Brooks Hurried Upstairs

"I'm Elena's brother-in-law. I'll go call her down." Nolan Brooks hurried upstairs, his steps noticeably quicker than usual.

Aaron Jackson crouched beside Elena, whispering, "Auntie, someone's asking for you downstairs. Looks like a high-ranking official."

Adrian Stone frowned slightly. "Who is it?" His gaze turned wary as it swept toward the staircase. Nathaniel had just been dealt with—was he causing trouble again?

"Said he's your savior, Auntie. An older gentleman." Aaron scratched his head. "Oh, and he brought bodyguards."

Elena's eyes lit up. "It must be General Douglas!" She turned to Adrian. "He was in that car accident when I came to the city last time. I happened to save him."

Adrian's expression shifted. "Douglas?"

"You know him?" Elena was surprised, though it made sense—Adrian's father moved in the same circles.

"Likely one of my father's comrades." Adrian stood. "I'll go down with you."

Nathaniel set down his chopsticks. "Me too." He straightened his collar. "Uncle Douglas and my grandfather go way back."

For a moment, Elena felt dazed. In her past life, she'd never had the chance to meet people of this stature, let alone have them visit her. This life truly was different.

At the stairwell landing, Adrian noticed Elena hesitate. He subtly closed the distance, ready to steady her if needed. She always acted so strong, but to him, she'd always be the girl who needed protecting.

"General! What brings you here?" Elena hurried forward.

Douglas laughed heartily. "Dr. Ward, you opened your practice without even telling me!"

He was about to tease her further when he spotted the two men behind her. His eyes brightened. "Adrian Stone? Nathaniel Turner? What are you two doing here?"

"Good to see you, Uncle," they said in unison.

Douglas clapped Adrian on the shoulder. "You rascal, transferred here without a word!" He turned to Nathaniel. "How's the old man? I sent my boy to pay respects last New Year holiday—said he was in good spirits."

Elena quickly arranged extra seating. Nathaniel explained, "Grandfather was critically ill recently. Dr. Ward saved him. I came specifically to thank her."

Douglas looked at Elena in astonishment. "Well, I'll be! You saved Old Man Turner too?" He started counting on his fingers. "Him, me, and..."

"And Director Carter," Adrian supplied smoothly.

Douglas roared with laughter. "Dr. Ward, with backing like this, you could walk sideways through this city and no one would dare stop you!"

Elena smiled faintly. "You flatter me, General. I only know how to heal, not throw my weight around."

"Good answer!" Douglas slapped the table. "That's what I like about you." His gaze flicked to where Elena sat beside Adrian, and he raised an eyebrow. "Adrian, why so far apart? Unless..."

Adrian's ears turned pink, but before he could respond, Elena stood gracefully. "Uncle Douglas, let me check your pulse while you're here. A follow-up would be good."

The diversion made everyone laugh. Harold Baker shook his head at Elena. "This girl's got a talent for changing subjects."

The room filled with cheerful banter. Elena stole a glance at Adrian, finding his warm gaze already on her. Her heart softened. Yes, this life was entirely different.