Chapter 495: Elena Ward Held Adrian Stone's Arm

Elena Ward held Adrian Stone's arm as they returned to the Stone residence, their hands full of shopping bags. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground.

"Tired?" Adrian asked softly, giving her palm a gentle squeeze.

Elena shook her head with a faint smile. "Just these health supplements for your parents are a bit heavy."

They had agreed to only bring essentials for the family, saving other purchases for when they returned to Northland Province. Traveling long distances with too much luggage was inconvenient and risked damage.

As they stepped into the living room, they found Sylvia Stone sitting primly on the sofa. A polite smile graced her lips, but a trace of unease flickered in her eyes.

"Adrian, Elena, come sit," she greeted warmly, her fingers absently tracing the rim of her teacup.

Adrian guided Elena to the couch, immediately noticing his stepmother's tension.

Sylvia Stone was mentally tallying wedding expenses. Between Adrian's military comrades, friends, and relatives from both families, they'd need at least twenty tables—not accounting for last-minute guests. She bit her lip, strategizing how to maintain propriety while cutting costs.

"Auntie, you seem pale. Are you feeling unwell?" Elena asked with concern.

Sylvia Stone forced a brighter smile. "Just wedding planning." She hesitated. "I thought we'd hold it at the First Dining Hall. It's not as grand as the Third, but more budget-friendly—"

Adrian cut in cheerfully, "Whatever you arrange is fine, Auntie. Elena and I don't care about pomp."

Elena nodded. "Simple is perfect."

Sylvia Stone exhaled discreetly, her smile turning genuine. "Then the invitations—"

"We'll handle those," Adrian interjected, his gaze softening at Elena. They'd already shared their most meaningful vows during their border ceremony—no banquet could compare.

The moment shattered as Adrian's elder brother barged in. "Hold on! My little brother deserves a proper wedding!" Arms akimbo, he fixed Sylvia Stone with a challenging stare. "I'm overseeing this."

Sylvia Stone's smile froze, her teacup trembling slightly.