Chapter 474: Elena Had Just Changed Her Clothes

Elena had just changed her clothes when Adrian pulled her into the living room. His father, Nathaniel Stone, and stepmother, Sylvia Stone, sat stiffly on the sofa, their expressions grim.

"Dad, Auntie," Elena greeted politely, her gaze flickering to Adrian. He gave her a reassuring wink.

"Have a seat," Nathaniel Stone gestured to the opposite couch.

Elena's stomach tightened. News of The Hales' visit must have spread. She clenched her fists, nails digging into her palms. Whatever was coming, she'd face it head-on.

"Dad, there's something we wanted to discuss," Adrian interjected smoothly. "The General mentioned attending our wedding, but Elena and I prefer something simple."

Nathaniel Stone's eyebrow lifted. "Oh?"

"We already had our real wedding at the frontlines—that's the memory we cherish," Adrian said, squeezing Elena's hand. "This time, we just want an intimate gathering with family and friends. No need for fanfare, even if the General attends."

Sylvia Stone immediately protested, "That won't do! It's unfair to Elena." She turned saccharine eyes toward Elena. "A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event for a woman. How could we cut corners?"

Elena's lips curved slightly. What a convincing performance.

"Auntie, I don't feel slighted," she said softly. "What matters is our union, not the ceremony."

Nathaniel Stone nodded approvingly. "It's admirable that you young people think this way. But certain traditions should still be observed."

"Exactly," Adrian agreed cheerfully. "That's why we'd like Auntie to handle the arrangements—keeping everything minimal."

Sylvia Stone's smile faltered for a split second. "I... wouldn't want to impose. I might not meet your expectations."

"How could that be?" Elena's voice dripped honey. "You've always treated Adrian as your own son. I'm sure you'll plan everything perfectly."

She emphasized "your own son," catching the flicker of panic in Sylvia Stone's eyes. Elena suppressed a cold laugh. Did this woman really think she'd forgotten her past cruelty toward Adrian?

Nathaniel Stone patted his wife's hand. "Then it's settled. Shufen, do take care of it."

"Of course," Sylvia Stone forced out, her nails nearly drawing blood from her palms.

Elena sipped her tea, watching through the steam as resentment flashed in Sylvia Stone's eyes.

The real performance had only just begun.