Chapter 191: Gripping Elena Ward's Hand So Tightly It Made Her Wince

"I won't make vows because I think they're hollow," Adrian Stone said, gripping Elena Ward's hand so tightly it made her wince. "How many men have broken their promises after swearing them? I'd rather show you with actions. From now on, you, Elena Ward, are my only wife and the mother of my children."

Elena leaned against his chest, breathing in the faint scent of tobacco on his clothes. For the first time, she realized a heartbeat could feel this steady.

"Elena," Adrian murmured, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "That's what I'll call you from now on. Only me."

A loud growl interrupted the moment.

Elena flushed and looked up. "I'm hungry."

Adrian chuckled, ruffling her soft hair. "Let's eat."

Their eyes met, and the air between them seemed to shimmer with sweetness.

As the clinic door opened, Nurse Alice peeked out cautiously. Seeing Elena smiling brightly with Adrian's arm around her, she finally relaxed.

"Alice, join us for lunch," Elena offered.

Alice shook her lunchbox. "No need—I already grabbed mine." She wasn't about to play third wheel.

Adrian gave an approving nod. The girl had good sense.

"Who's that with Dr. Ward?" another nurse, Grace, whispered.

"Her fiancé!" Alice gushed. "He's a battalion commander—handsome and devoted. Dr. Ward hit the jackpot!"

Grace's expression dimmed. "Being a soldier's wife isn't easy..."

"I know," Alice sighed. "My brother's in the military. Without our parents helping, my sister-in-law struggles raising kids alone while farming. Dr. Ward will—"

"Food's getting cold," Grace cut in.

The cafeteria was nearly empty. Section Chief Cross nodded briefly at Elena before returning to his meal with the cooks. His attitude had cooled ever since learning she had "connections."

Elena led Adrian to the serving line, nodding awkwardly at the constant greetings from strangers.

"Seems you're quite popular," Adrian teased in a low voice.

Elena shot him a look. "It's because of you!"

His tall frame and military uniform drew attention wherever he went. Elena suddenly realized this would be her life now—always in the spotlight.

"Regrets?" Adrian breathed near her ear.

She shook her head, but whispers reached them:

"They say soldier's wives suffer..."

"My cousin married a company commander—she barely sees him..."

"Dr. Ward seems so delicate. How will she manage?"

Adrian's grip tightened. Elena tilted her head up with a sweet smile, mouthing, "I'm not afraid."

His eyes darkened. Abruptly, he pulled her toward the exit.

"No lunch?" Elena asked, startled.

"Let's eat at home," Adrian said roughly. "I want to hold you properly."

Her ears burned. She knew their future held more than just sweetness—there would be long separations and endless waiting. But for now, she only wanted to lose herself in the warmth of his arms.