Chapter 270: Elena Ward Was Jolted Awake by the Crackling Sounds Outside Her

Elena Ward was jolted awake by the crackling sounds outside her window. Rubbing her eyes, she noticed the faint light of dawn creeping through the curtains. Last night, they had stayed up late to welcome the New Year, but exhaustion had eventually claimed them all.

"Auntie! Auntie, wake up!" Hannah's cheerful voice called from the hallway.

Elena quickly threw on her coat and opened the door. Six eager children, dressed in their finest new clothes, crowded in, their eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Happy New Year, Auntie!" they chorused.

Elena smiled, ruffling their hair. "Happy New Year! You're all up so early?"

"We're waiting for our gift envelopes!" Hannah blinked up at her, tiny hands already outstretched.

Elena chuckled and turned to fetch the prepared envelopes. Just then, Rose entered with a steaming tray of dumplings from the kitchen. "Patience, everyone. Eat first, then you'll get your gifts."

The children cheered and gathered around the table. Elena noticed the faint shadows under Rose's eyes—she must have risen even earlier.

"Sis, why didn't you sleep a little longer?" Elena asked, accepting a bowl.

Rose wiped her hands. "Who sleeps in on New Year's Day?" She pulled a gift envelope from her pocket. "For you, Elena. Happy New Year."

Elena hesitated. "I'm working now—I shouldn't take—"

"Take it!" Rose pressed it into her hand. "To me, you'll always be the little sister I need to look after."

Elena's throat tightened as she clutched the envelope. Just then, Daniel, Grace, and Henry arrived, filling the room with lively chatter.

"Time to greet the elders!" Daniel announced. The six children knelt in a neat row, bowing three times in perfect unison.

"Happy New Year, Aunties and Uncles! May you be healthy and prosperous!"

The adults laughed, handing out gift envelopes. The children tore into theirs immediately.

"Wow! Aunt Elena gave the most!" Hannah waved a crisp dollar bill triumphantly.

Rose frowned. "Elena, you're spoiling them."

"Sis, no lectures on New Year's Day," Elena teased, smoothing Hannah's hair. "Besides, it's motivation. Hannah, tell me—do you want to go to college someday?"

"Yes!" Hannah nodded fiercely. "I want to be as amazing as you!"

Daniel roared with laughter. "That's the spirit!" He turned to Rose. "Let them dream big. Don't fuss over a little money."

After breakfast, the children scampered outside to play. Rose lowered her voice while clearing the table. "Nolan said he's coming for lunch."

Elena winked. "Finally making it official?"

"We're leaving after the fifth anyway." A blush crept up Rose's cheeks. "Let people talk."

Just then, Daniel called, "Come on, let's visit Grandma."

At Agnes's house, the courtyard was eerily quiet. Inside, the elderly woman sat alone on the cold bed, her breath visible in the unheated room.

"Grandma, why no fire?" Daniel hurried to add coal to the stove.

Agnes sighed. "Your uncle left early to visit others..."

Elena and Rose exchanged glances—anger and heartache mirrored in their eyes. How could anyone abandon their elder on New Year's Day?

"Grandma, come stay with us," Elena urged, clasping Agnes's icy hands.

Agnes shook her head, tears glistening. "It's bad luck to visit others' homes today. Just seeing you is enough..."

Daniel stood abruptly. "I'm going to find Uncle Calvin. This is unacceptable!"

Rose stopped him. "Not today. Let's keep the peace." She turned to Agnes. "We'll bring you lunch, Grandma."

As they left, Elena glanced back at the once-lively home, her heart heavy. New Year's joy wasn't universal—but life marched on regardless.

She clenched her fists. This year, she vowed, her family would know nothing but happiness.