Chapter 381: Elena Ward Blinked Playfully

"Perfect, saves us from meeting like we're at war." Elena Ward blinked playfully, tilting her head to rest on Adrian Stone's shoulder.

Adrian's ears turned red instantly. "D-don't... people might see," he murmured, shifting half a step away yet unwilling to put real distance between them.

Elena bit her lower lip. "Aren't... you going to ask me anything?" Her fingers tightened around the hem of her shirt. The secret of her healing force was out—better to lay it all bare than keep hiding.

"I'll listen if you want to tell me. If not, I'll never ask." Adrian suddenly turned, gripping her shoulders. "But promise me this stays between us—no one else, not even your closest family." His gaze held unprecedented intensity. "The more who know, the greater your danger."

In the morning light, he watched her focused profile as she nibbled on a plain bun. Her long lashes cast delicate shadows, and even the simplest ration seemed like a feast the way she ate it.

"How did you get here?" His voice tightened. "When I saw you, my heart nearly stopped."

Elena tilted her head, a sly smile playing at her lips. "I thought you'd have guessed by now."

Adrian's pupils contracted, his fists clenching audibly. "Was it... them?"

The unspoken understanding hung between them. Who else but Madam Stone, who'd been targeting them at every turn, could have arranged Elena's transfer to the frontlines?

"They want us to back down," Elena said softly, covering his trembling hand with hers. "If you hadn't come here, they might've gotten their wish by now."

"Bastards!" Adrian slammed his fist against the wall. "How dare they gamble with your life!"

Elena rested a hand on his tense back. "Look at the bright side—without them, we wouldn't have reunited here." Rising on her toes, she whispered by his ear: "This time, it's my turn to say it—if I don't make it back, marry a good woman."

Adrian whirled to face her, but her eyes glimmered with resolve. "If we both survive this..." She drew a steadying breath. "I will marry you."

Under the moonlight, their shadows merged until no line remained between them.