Chapter 356

"Adrian, are you sure you're alright?" Elder Roland frowned deeply, his gaze lingering on the bandages wrapping his grandson's arm.

Adrian gave a resigned smile. "Grandfather, it's just a scratch."

"I don't believe you." The old man turned to Stella, his tone softening instantly. "Stella, tell me the truth."

Her fingers trembled slightly as she avoided his concerned eyes. "The doctor said... he just needs rest."

"Good." Elder Roland exhaled in relief, his clouded eyes dimming. "This old man is useless now..."

"Grandfather!"

"Don't humor me." He waved a hand, studying them both. "When I'm gone, Adrian will only have you two left... Promise me you'll always take care of each other."

Stella clenched her skirt, nails digging into her palms.

Adrian smoothly intervened. "You're overthinking things. We still need you to babysit our three little troublemakers. We were just planning a date night."

The old man burst into laughter, crow's feet crinkling. "Go! With your blessing, I can rest easy..."

Benjamin chuckled nearby. "Master, they've been holding hands since they arrived."

Stella startled, realizing her hand had slipped into Adrian's elbow. She jerked away, ears burning. "He's injured... I was just—"

"Still as shy as ever." Benjamin's eyes twinkled. "Just like when you first started dating—claiming you were only siblings while clinging to his arm."

Memories flooded back—her younger self demanding Adrian's attention like a spoiled princess, only to become timid after they became a couple.

"Benjamin!" Adrian coughed, his ears reddening.

"Alright, I'll stop." The butler's smile faded. "If only Madam Roland and Mr. Valentine... could have seen this..."

Silence fell over the room.

Adrian broke it. "We're taking the children to the amusement park."

"Go on." The elder nodded, then fretted. "Mind your arm."

"Daddy's taking us!" Celeste bounced, pigtails swinging. "Now no one can say I don't have a daddy!"

Stella's heart ached as she scooped up her daughter. "Who said that? Your daddy is handsomer than all of theirs."

"Exactly!" Celeste lifted her chin proudly, reaching for Adrian. "Carry me!"

"Don't be difficult." Stella frowned. "Your father's hurt."

Adrian already hoisted the girl one-handed, smirking. "If I can carry you, Celeste is nothing." He turned. "Ethan, protect Mommy and Luna."

"Sir!" The boy puffed his chest, grasping Luna's hand and Stella's. "I'll guard everyone today!"

Luna mumbled through a mouthful of cookies. "Mhm!"

Stella's eyes stung as she ruffled Ethan's hair. "Our little knight is so dependable."

Sunlight stretched their silhouettes across the floor. Benjamin watched them leave, murmuring, "Master, are you at peace now?"

Elder Roland wiped his eyes. "These children... they've suffered too much..."

By the SUV, Stella fastened seatbelts on three squirming children, sweat glistening on her forehead.

"Stella."

She turned. Adrian stood by the passenger door, his right hand shielding the car's roof. Sunlight gilded his profile, softening his sharp features.

"Get in, my lady."