Chapter 500: My Wife, My Rules

"Elena is my wife, not our mother," Adrian Stone said coldly as he descended the stairs, his military boots thudding heavily against the wooden floorboards. "A man taking care of his woman is only natural. You're not married yet—you wouldn't understand."

Owen Stone flushed with anger. "Second Brother, you're spoiling her too much! What kind of wife expects her husband to bring meals to her room?"

"What kind of wife is like Elena?" Adrian whirled around, his gaze sharp as a blade. "She charged through a minefield without blinking. If I want to spoil her, that's my right."

Owen choked on his retort. The memory of his last punishment from Adrian made his back ache faintly.

"Let me make this clear," Adrian stepped closer, his voice dangerously low. "You will show her respect. Or else—"

Owen shrank back. He knew his brother never made empty threats.

The aroma of food drifted from the kitchen. Adrian turned away to serve the meal, leaving his younger brother standing dumbfounded.

Owen suddenly thought of Renee Foster—the girl who had always trailed after Adrian but never spared him a glance. If Renee had married him... would he have doted on her like this?

"Owen!" Nathaniel Stone's roar snapped him out of his thoughts.

In the living room, the patriarch slammed his palm on the table. "The wedding will be held at the community canteen—twenty tables, simple and efficient!"

Adrian emerged from the kitchen carrying a tray, his expression calm. "Father, I have no objections."

"Adrian!" Marcus Stone shot to his feet. "You're just letting them—"

"Marcus!" Nathaniel Stone barked. "Mind your own household! Get out of here before you cause more trouble!"

Marcus stormed out, the door slamming hard enough to rattle the windows.

Adrian didn't even glance up as he carefully carried the tray upstairs. Elena was waiting for him.