Chapter 457: The Trio Stepped Through the Threshold

The trio stepped through the threshold.

Elena Ward's fingers trembled slightly, her heart pounding like a drum. Meeting her in-laws for the first time—who wouldn't be nervous?

Adrian Stone carried their luggage in one hand while firmly gripping her icy fingers with the other. "Don't worry, I'm here," he murmured, his deep voice steady and resolute. "If they give you trouble, we leave immediately."

She squeezed his hand in return, drawing warmth from his touch.

"Dad! Adrian brought his wife home!" Marcus Stone's booming announcement startled everyone in the living room.

Elena lifted her gaze to a room full of people.

The familiar face of Sylvia Stone came into view, her smile so artificial it stung. Beside her sat an elderly man with sharp eyes and graying temples. The old man's expression softened with relief when he saw them.

"Mom, Dad, we're back," Adrian said, never letting go of Elena's hand.

Nathaniel Stone gave a slight nod. "Good to have you home."

"Let me see—were you hurt anywhere?" The elder scrutinized his son, exhaling in relief when he found him unharmed.

"Dad, this is Elena Ward, my wife." Adrian's voice was firm. "We're legally married, with the entire battalion as witnesses."

Only then did Nathaniel Stone study Elena properly. The delicate-looking young woman before him had stood beside his son through gunfire—such courage deserved respect.

"The journey must have been tiring," he said simply, his tone conveying acceptance.

Sylvia Stone beamed and beckoned. "Come, sit by me. When we first met, I never imagined you'd be so brave. You and Adrian are truly meant to be."

Her affectionate demeanor made it seem as though past conflicts had never existed.

Adrian guided Elena to the opposite sofa without hesitation.

"Second Brother!" Owen Stone suddenly slammed the table and stood. "Mom invited her over—is this how you respond? Dr. Ward, don't you know basic manners when elders call for you?"

"Third Brother." Adrian's gaze turned icy. "This is our family matter. I decide who deserves respect."

"You—" Owen Stone's face flushed with anger. "Don't think your achievements make you untouchable! Have you forgotten how Mom packed your gear before every mission? This is how you repay her?"

Like a protective hen, he shielded Sylvia Stone—the only mother he'd ever known.