Ch. 1291..1300

Chapter 1291

Chapter 1291

Lena's heart raced as she nervously fiddled with the hem of her clothes, troubled and uncertain. She had never worn a dress like the off-shoulder one before. Her usual attire consisted of all-black outfits, fully covering her arms, and she felt that this style was her destiny from birth. In her mind, such a beautiful dress belonged to girls like her sister.

Seeing Lena freeze like a startled deer, Chris felt a sudden clench in his heart. He chuckled softly and suggested, "Hmm... Maybe you shouldn't wear that one."

Lena looked at him, and he continued. "I think this one suits your style better." He pointed to a classic long dress with an elegant and conservative design, the hem falling below the knees. It carried a unique charm without stealing the spotlight from the bride.

Lina's eyes lit up, and she agreed. "That's right! Lenny, you do seem more suitable for this kind of long dress. Chris has a good eye!"

Chris smirked and asked Lena to try it on. She took it and quickly entered the fitting room.

The result of the fitting pleased everyone-the bridesmaid looked elegant and delicate, and the best man appeared tall and handsome. They looked perfectly matched, standing together.

Lina discreetly took a photo of them side by side and sent it to Zuko. She then stepped aside and called him, asking, "What do you think?"

Zuko's soft voice came through on the other end. "Looks great."

Lina smiled and declared, "Lenny will be staying at my house from now on. If Mr. Special Forces wants to date her, he'll have to go through me first!"

"Staying at your house?" Zuko sounded surprised. "But didn't my grandmother-"

"Yeah, my dad asked the same thing just now. He said Grandma Janine wanted to thank her properly and asked if she'd be willing to stay with her. The environment there is nice, better than her rented place, and she could take care of Grandma Janine."

"She refused?" Zuko asked.

"Yeah." Lina paused for a moment and then chuckled softly. "She said she'd rather stay with me. But she'll still go over to Grandma Janine's place to look after her."

"Oh..."

Zuko furrowed his brow, trying to understand Lena's behavior. Was she really that dependent on Lina?

He reminded himself not to dwell on such thoughts. Lena was just a young girl who acted distant, but...

He breathed deeply and massaged his temples, sensing something unique about Lena. Perhaps if Chris could engage her in other activities, she wouldn't always cling to Lina.

Moreover, with Chris' special forces background, he could easily uncover Lena's past if given the chance.

Zuko smirked, finding the previously disapproved document now much more appealing.

As the wedding day neared, Nicholas and Zephyr spent less time on fishing and hot spring trips, dedicating more time to wedding preparations. They discussed tasks that still needed attention and occasionally ran errands for their wives in exchange for pocket money.

Jesse and Melissa were equally enthusiastic, offering their help whenever necessary.

Chapter 1292

Chapter 1292

Zuko had reserved a special spot for the Jenner couple when arranging the wedding venue. They had given Lina a second chance at life and were the most important people to her.

With most preparations completed, Zephyr and Cordelia invited Nicholas and Linda to see the wedding house they prepared for the young couple. They spent five minutes viewing the house and the following two hours catching up.

The four of them sat in the courtyard, reminiscing about their youth, eating fruit, and enjoying the breeze.

Cordelia served homemade desserts and fruit tea, which Linda greatly admired.

"Cordelia, your culinary skills are as exquisite as ever. I almost don't want to eat them!" Linda praised.

Nicholas, a bit worried, said, "My daughter doesn't know how to make these. You won't mind as her mother-in-law, will you?"

Zephyr playfully punched Nicholas, saying, "Pammy and Renee are both our daughters now. We're more than fond of them!"

With a sly grin, Nicholas said, "I remember a fortune teller saying you needed to have seven sons to get a daughter!

"Hey, Zephyr, why didn't you keep having sons to test if that prediction was accurate? Were you afraid that too many sons would fight over your inheritance and cause trouble?" "Nicholas!" Zephyr roared, "Nobody will think you're mute even if you don't speak!"

Cordelia and Linda watched them helplessly, both speechless at their antics.

Cordelia chuckled softly, holding Linda's hand. "Linda, you and Nicholas went through so much to find Pammy. Are you really willing to let her get married and leave so soon?" "Oh, you'd agree if I wanted to keep her for a few more years?" Linda teased.

"Well... I'm a bit torn about that."

"Come on! Don't be so polite with me." Linda patted her hand. "My daughter is marrying your son. What's there for me to be reluctant about? If I miss her, I can visit her anytime, right? Besides, Lenny is staying at our place now. Nicholas and I won't be lonely!"

"Lenny?" Cordelia was puzzled.

'Right! She is the one who cooperated well with Chris to save mom!' Cordelia thought.

"Yes, her name is Lena," Linda said. "Don't be fooled by her young appearance. She's quite mature for her age. And she's really good to Pammy!"

"Exactly!" Nicholas, unable to win against Zephyr, walked over to the women and joined the conversation. "Lenny is always with Pammy. During the wedding preparations, she's always been busy without complaining! I think since they get along so well, and since she also helped save Madam Baker, she's a good kid. So we let her stay at our place."

Nicholas furrowed his brow. "But I don't know... There's something strange about her gaze. But she's definitely not a bad person. I can be sure of that."

Cordelia pondered momentarily and asked, "Does she particularly like being with Pammy?"

"Yes."

"Is she especially kind to Pammy?"

"Oh, absolutely! She'd jump into a pot of boiling water for her!"

"Oh..." Cordelia glanced at Zephyr, a smile hidden in her eyes. "In matters like this, our Zephyr has enough experience to speak, don't you?" Zephyr choked on his fruit tea, nearly spitting it out.

Chapter 1293

Chapter 1293

"Darling, what are you saying?" Zephyr's tone was exasperated.

"I was just saying that someone in my hometown also has a close friend of the same sex. True love knows no gender, right?" Cordelia's face turned red with laughter as she covered her mouth. Nicholas erupted with thunderous laughter. "Hahaha!"

Startled by his sudden outburst, Linda raised her hand to hit him.

Zephyr rolled his eyes and shot him a disdainful look before noticing Cordelia's triumphant expression.

As his hand reached her waist, it transformed into a gentle embrace, and he wore a pleasing smile on his face.

"Darling, can we stop talking about this?"

"I'm not angry. I was just teasing you." Cordelia stroked his face.

Despite their age, Zephyr's face still held its charm and remained the most handsome in her heart.

"Yeah," Linda agreed. "If we hadn't brought up Lenny and Pammy, we wouldn't be discussing this... But, Cordelia, do you really think that Lenny has those kinds of feelings for Pammy?"

"I can't say for sure." Cordelia pondered for a moment. "I hope not."

"Actually, she's a really good kid." Linda sighed lightly, "When I saw her standing next to Chris in that dress, they looked really compatible!"

"Don't worry. Good people always find happiness," Cordelia reassured, holding Linda's hand. "We're getting older now and can't control everything. Let the children make their own choices when it comes to love."

With one month left until the wedding, almost everything that needed to be done had been taken care of, and Zuko and Lina were spending more and more time together.

To be precise, it was Zuko who clung to Lina.

Zuko didn't believe in the idea of seeing each other less or not at all before marriage. He wanted to be with her all the time, by her side.

One day, he went to the Thompson Group and walked confidently to Lina's office. The secretary understood and rescheduled Lina's day, setting aside lunchtime for them to be alone. Approaching Lina's desk with a playful smile, Zuko leaned casually against it.

Lina didn't even look up as she teased, "A new applicant?"

Zuko was momentarily taken aback but then smiled. "Yes. Are you satisfied with my qualifications, Ms. Thompson?"

"The qualifications are good, but... why are you here alone in my office?"

"What else can I do?" Zuko leaned over and huskily replied, "Of course, I want to get the job!"

Lina looked up and saw Zuko's wide grin, finding it hard to associate him with the ruthless and authoritative Mr. Hamerton from the Hamerton Group.

She recalled a time when they had a video call, and Zuko playfully said he wanted to shower with her but ended up making a fool of himself with some funny poses.

Chuckling, Lina pinched his face playfully as she stood up.

Zuko was tempted and wrapped his arm around her waist, desiring a passionate moment with her in the office. However, he decided to wait until after the wedding. Their first time had to be special, in their dreamy bridal chamber, on that soft, large bed...

Unaware of Zuko's thoughts, Lina innocently asked, "What's wrong with you? Why do you look dazed?"

Zuko snapped back to reality with a cryptic smirk.

"Oh, by the way, I have something to show you!" Lina said, taking out a completed architectural design from the bookshelf behind her. Zuko paused. "This is..."

Chapter 1294

Chapter 1294

"Didn't someone mention this before? You asked for a golden room, right?" Lina said.

"So, this is the golden chamber you've created for me?" Zuko paused briefly before laughing.

He carefully examined the blueprint, impressed by Lina's exceptional drawing skills. The design looked as if it had been printed by a machine, with each element distinct and pursued to perfection.

"Do you like it?" Lina asked, looking expectantly at him.

Zuko chuckled softly. How could he not like it?

He reminisced about when his mother bought his father a very cheap car. Zephyr treated it like a treasure, caring for it as if it were the most valuable possession. But now, Lina had outdone them all by gifting him an entire house.

"It would be perfect if this place was close to the sea and the mountains." Zuko embraced her, resting her head on his shoulder. "This house would look even better if built along the mountains." He then asked, "Lina, have you chosen the location?"

"Yes," Lina replied, gently rubbing his face. "But for now, it's a secret. Once the house is finished, I'll hide you away properly!"

Zuko smiled, deeply moved by Lina's affection. The house itself mattered little to him-it was the love and thoughtfulness behind the gesture that touched his heart.

A month later, the grand wedding took place at the Hamerton Manor.

It was a crisp autumn day, and the outdoor wedding exuded both solemnity and warmth. Every detail reflected grandeur and luxury. Only close family and friends attended the celebration, with all media requests respectfully declined.

Zuko didn't want Lina to feel pressured. They were not public figures. Despite numerous speculations in the media, they felt no obligation to satisfy public curiosity.

He wanted to use this solemn ceremony to declare to the world that he was marrying the girl he had held hands with as a child, the girl he had always yearned for, and the girl he had made a lifelong promise

to.

During the wedding banquet, Toph was his usual extroverted self, and the atmosphere wouldn't have been complete without him.

Abigail was the only invited artist, and with Jacob by her side, and no peer or Jackie nearby, she felt relieved of her duty to stay reserved. Thus, everyone saw a usually aloof female celebrity indulging herself, holding a plate of cake with smeared cream all over her mouth.

As the best man, Chris diligently fulfilled his duties. He helped Zuko with toasts, reminded him of the next steps, and stood by his side when needed, quietly retreating into the background when not required. However, the behavior of the bridesmaid, Lena, left people amused and puzzled.

She always followed Lina, rarely smiled, and maintained a high level of alertness. She was more like a bodyguard than a bridesmaid.

Lina discreetly tugged her hand and smiled gently. "Don't be like this. Relax."

"No! There are so many people here today, many of whom I don't know. What if someone tries to harm you? I need to stand in front of you to protect you!"

"Lenny!" Lina laughed helplessly. "Today's guests are all close friends and family. Who would want to harm me?"

"Wasn't Desiree a 'good friend' Grandma Janine brought?"

"Well..."

Lina couldn't argue with that. She had to let Lena be.

Zuko glanced at Lena, feeling a sense of confusion. Her attachment to Lina was very unusual!

There must be some special reason behind this.

However, before he could think more about it, his thoughts were interrupted by a loud Toph.

Zuko looked up. "Toph, have you had too much to drink?!"

Chapter 1295

Chapter 1295

Toph had a slightly red face from drinking. He danced and laughed with the Baker men, who were also dressed in traditional kilts.

Zuko's eyes widened in surprise. The Baker kids had studied in Zkotland and were familiar with the local customs. In Zkotland, men wore kilts characterized by large tartan patterns in bright colors. With the voluminous pleats, Toph became the most eye-catching figure at the entire wedding!

While this was normal in Zkotland, it seemed unconventional to the other guests.

Zuko lowered his head, trying to avoid the situation and have someone take Toph away quickly.

"Bro, don't I look good in this outfit?" Toph laughed carefreely. "Stand right there! I'm about to play a bagpipe tune for you!"

"No!" Zuko gestured hastily.

Toph looked disappointed. "Zuko, why not?"

"Well... Oh, this is your reserved act! What will you do later if you perform all your acts now?"

Toph realized the point and smiled again, continuing to have fun with everyone.

Zuko smiled too, relieved that Renee wasn't there to see Toph like this. Renee had been taking care of Linda and Nicholas all the time, knowing that Lina might not handle everything perfectly today. "Good girl, you don't have to stay with us!" Linda patted her hand. "Go hang out with Toph! Look how crazy he is!"

Renee smiled gently and shook her head. "Uncle Nicholas and Aunt Linda, I'm taking care of you today on behalf of Lina. Oh, and also Uncle Jesse and Aunt Melissa. You four are my biggest task today!" Linda looked at her affectionately and patted her small face. After spending so much time together, there was hardly any emotional difference between Renee and her own daughter.

"Is your mother feeling well?" Linda inquired.

"Yes, everything is fine," Renee replied with a nod. "There are just too many people today, and she couldn't handle it, so she didn't come. She misses Lina a lot, though. She even asked me to wish her a happy wedding!"

Cheers erupted from nearby as Lina stood in front of a row of people, back turned, and tossed the bouquet into the air.

The playful group eagerly rushed forward to catch the bouquet!

Renee watched and laughed. She couldn't see who caught the bouquet, but someone stumbled while trying to catch it, setting off a chain reaction as others fell like a stack of dominoes. The joyous peals of laughter echoed in the clear blue sky.

Early the next morning, sunlight streamed through the window, casting warm hues in the bridal room.

Inside, clothes were scattered on the floor, and the couple slept on the bed in each other's arms. The sweet romance from the previous night had continued into the present moment.

Zuko moved and slowly opened his eyes, fully awake. He looked at Lina in his arms, her shoulders still exposed. Carefully, he pulled the blanket over her and gently kissed her forehead, smiling contentedly. Echoes of her pleas from the previous night seemed to linger in his ears...

Zuko blushed with a smirk. Actually, he wanted to let her off the hook, too. As much as his mind wanted that, his body was honest in its defiance. It was not his brain that controlled him then, but a certain part o him.

As Lina woke up, she felt like she was leaning against a gentle and solid chest. However, when she moved her body, a sharp pain spread throughout her entire being as if her bones were falling apart. "Zuko..." Her voice lazily called, making Zuko's heart race.

This time, reason won out. She definitely would not be able to bear it if he went on.

"Yeah, I'm here." He gently inquired with a deep voice, "Still... hurting?"

Lina shot him a slightly annoyed look. "Of course it hurts."

"Where does it hurt?"

Was that even a question?

Lina playfully nudged him. "Come on! Tell me where it hurts!"

Zuko smirked and replied casually, "If I ever fell or got hurt as a child, my mom would hold me and gently rub the pain away... Do you want me to give you a little rub, too?"

Lina blushed crimson but couldn't tell if he was joking or being serious from his earnest expression. She pulled the blanket over herself, turning away and ignoring him.

Zuko also slipped under the covers and embraced her from behind, wanting to ensure she was comfortable.

"What are you trying to do, Zuko?" Lina asked, her curiosity piqued.

"I've told you before, haven't I?" Zuko chuckled in a husky voice. "I want to... do some morning exercises!"

When they finally went downstairs, it was already lunchtime. The servants were busy clearing unnecessary things and setting up for lunch.

Lina felt her head heavy, with no appetite and too lazy to even pick up the cutlery.

Fortunately, Zuko was there to feed her.

"Babe, where do you want to go for our honeymoon?"

"Honeymoon?" Lina chuckled lightly. "Work is my priority right now. I haven't even thought about the honeymoon."

"Well..."

"The Thompson Group is expanding into real estate, and several projects are at a critical stage. I need to pay more attention to that." What else could Zuko say? He could only agree. Otherwise, the washboard in the corner would have to come into play.

"Promise me that once you're less busy, we'll make up for the honeymoon!" Zuko requested.

"Alright!" Lina's eyes formed smiling crescents. "Not only the honeymoon, but I'll also give you your golden chamber!"

"It's a deal."

Zuko extended his pinky finger, and they sealed the promise.

Lina's heart stirred, recalling how they used to hold hands as kids. It felt just like now.

She wondered if little Pammy had stuck to little Zuko in the same way back then.

Life had its twists and turns, but it eventually brought the person from their memories right by their side.

Feeling grateful for the kindness of fate, Lina leaned her head on Zuko's shoulder, smiling.

As they enjoyed their lunch, Zuko's phone suddenly rang.

"Zuko, I'm really sorry... I know I shouldn't be bothering you at this time, but I..." Toph's voice sounded apologetic.

Knowing his younger brother well, Zuko understood that Toph wouldn't disturb him unless it was something important. "What happened?" Zuko inquired.

"It's Renee's mom. Her illness has relapsed!"

Chapter 1296

Chapter 1296

Renee's mother, Kaitlyn Carmichael, had fallen into a coma again. When Lina and Zuko arrived at the hospital, Kaitlyn had already been wheeled into the emergency room.

Zennie and Seth, both medical professors, were coordinating the emergency response while doctors and nurses hurriedly moved through the bustling corridor.

Lina went up to hug Renee, comforting her softly. "Don't worry, Aunt Zennie and Uncle Seth are both experts in their field. They said before that Aunt Kaitlyn's condition hadn't reached the point of needing a kidney transplant. She'll be fine!"

Renee couldn't speak coherently.

Toph tried to explain, "Aunt Zennie and Uncle Seth mentioned that kidney disease is a complicated condition, even though a kidney transplant wasn't required at that time."

Zuko frowned. "Didn't they use specialized medicine already?"

Toph did not know what was going on either. He could only sit outside and wait.

After a while, the lights in the emergency room dimmed, and the group rushed over.

Zennie removed her mask and looked at them seriously. "My preliminary diagnosis is that this is a side effect of that specialized medicine."

"What?"

Zennie elaborated, "Different medications have various side effects, some immediate, and others accumulate over time. This medicine is effective for treating kidney conditions, but the patient's body constantly changes. So, there's no such thing as an absolute miracle drug in the world."

Zennie sighed softly. "As a doctor, I shouldn't be saying this, but there's an old saying we must believe. Life and death are destined. It's really like that sometimes."

"Are you saying... my mom's beyond help?" Renee's legs weakened, and Toph supported her shoulder, holding her in his arms.

"We'll do our best," Zennie reassured her. "Seth suggests consulting with an expert from abroad."

Toph said anxiously, "Aunt Zennie, what kind of foreign expert are we talking about here? How can we get them to come? I'll make sure Aunt Kaitlyn recovers, no matter the cost!"

"Don't worry," Zennie reassured softly. "The expert is a renowned authority in nephrology. His name is Adam Moran, and he was our mentor during our medical doctorates abroad. Inviting him is just a matter of sending an email."

Kaitlyn was sent to a VIP ward after leaving the emergency room. Zennie and Seth wasted no time in bringing Adam in.

Adam immediately immersed himself in studying the medical reports, organizing consultations, and discussing surgical plans at the hospital, even without adjusting to his jetlag after the flight.

Soon, Kaitlyn's surgery was scheduled, with Adam as the lead surgeon and Seth and Zennie assisting throughout the procedure.

Despite the surgery lasting the entire day, everyone breathed a sigh of relief when Adam emerged from the operating room with a smile.

"Are you Ms. Carmichael's daughter?" Adam inquired. He walked over to Renee, smiling affectionately at her. "Don't worry. Your mother is not in danger."

Renee was overjoyed and tearful, her shoulders trembling. She was unable to form a complete sentence.

It was Toph who expressed their gratitude, bowing 90 degrees, which startled Adam.

"You don't need to be so polite, young man!" Adam chuckled. "The surgery was successful, but there are a few things I need to advise you all on. When a patient's kidneys suddenly deteriorate, their physical condition definitely won't fully recover to what it was before. So, you must be prepared for the long term.

"Furthermore, Zennie and Seth's judgment was accurate. The patient didn't need a kidney transplant, but this sudden deterioration was something no doctor could predict. As for what might happen next time, it can only be handled on a case-by-case basis."

"Alright, we understand." Zuko and Lina also sighed in relief. "Thank you, Doctor Moran!"

In the following days, Renee spent most of her time at the hospital, tirelessly caring for her mother.

Toph couldn't bear to see her do it alone, so he arranged for the best nurses and attendants to work in shifts, providing round-the-clock care.

He often accompanied Renee, taking her out occasionally to relax. He searched for trendy restaurants and entertainment spots from various popularity lists, creatively surprising her.

Once, Toph even brought a complete set of hand care equipment, intending to give her a hand care spa.

Renee was moved and amused, saying she still needed to take care of her mother, so doing hand care was not convenient.

"Who said it's not convenient?" Toph raised an eyebrow. "Taking care of Aunt Kaitlyn doesn't require your direct involvement at all!"

"Toph..."

Chapter 1297

Chapter 1297

"My wife won't have to lift a finger for anything in the future!" Toph said seriously, looking at Renee. "Have you read 'Gone with the Wind"?"

Not well-versed in literature, Renee shook her head with slight embarrassment.

Toph spoke gently. "In the book, there's a part where the female protagonist falls into difficulties and goes to the male protagonist to borrow money. Despite previously claiming to live luxuriously, the male protagonist could tell from her appearance that she was struggling just by looking at her hands. They were rough, giving away her true situation... Do you understand why?"

"I don't know," admitted Renee.

"The male protagonist noticed her hands," Toph said as he held Renee's hand. "Even though she dressed up nicely, her rough hands betrayed her hardships."

"I won't let you end up like that," Toph reassured her with a smile. "When you're with me, you won't have to worry about anything! Leave all the tough and laborious work to me!" Renee looked at him with tears in her eyes, biting her lip.

Toph gently kissed her forehead and continued with a happy smile. "I want to protect these hands forever. How could I not take good care of them?"

Zuko felt a bit resentful as he didn't have a proper honeymoon, especially when everyone at the Hamerton Group praised him.

"Mr. Zuko is truly impressive! He got married and didn't even go on a honeymoon, showing incredible self-control!"

"Not only did he skip the honeymoon, but he also came to work on the third day after his wedding! His dedication is unmatched!"

"Following in his father's footsteps, indeed!"

Zuko listened silently.

In the afternoon, he had planned to book a seaside cafe for a romantic afternoon tea with Lina. However, while he was given some documents to sign, he accidentally sent the café location to Toph instead of Lina.

Their afternoon tea for two turned into three when Toph, with a hearty appetite, joined them, much to Zuko's displeasure.

"Control yourself!" Zuko growled, "I'm a married man and more disciplined than you! If you get fat, let's see how you'll fit into a suit at your wedding!"

Cake crumbs smeared Toph's face as he grinned at Zuko, seemingly unfazed.

"It's okay, Renee won't mind," Toph retorted.

"You can't be so sure."

"Bro, you complain about me the most in this world!"

"You..."

The two brothers were about to start a fight again, and Lina interrupted them. She laughed as she held Zuko's hand. "Stop fooling around!" Zuko heeded his wife's words, adjusting his suit before haughtily picking up his coffee cup.

Lina asked Toph, "By the way, why didn't Renee come with you?"

"Aunt Kaitlyn was discharged from the hospital the day before yesterday. Renee didn't want to leave her mom alone at home," Toph replied.

"What's there to worry about, though? I've arranged three nannies, two caretakers, two bodyguards outside, and the driver is there too. Any emergency, and getting her to the hospital is doable!"

"But Renee isn't as relaxed as you!" Lina laughed. "Besides, that's her birth mom. She wants to spend more time with her at home."

Toph hesitated and muttered, "Aunt Kaitlyn doesn't necessarily want to spend time with her."

"Huh?" Lina was puzzled. "What do you mean?"

Toph's expression darkened as he was hesitant to speak about it.

Zuko understood his brother's concern. Toph was usually carefree and lighthearted, but now he seemed weighed down by worries.

Zuko asked with concern, "Toph, did something happen?"

"Um..." Toph bit his lip. "Aunt Kaitlyn's been acting really strange since she returned home from the hospital."

Chapter 1298

Chapter 1298

Toph said, "Aunt Kaitlyn was discharged two days ago and looked much better. But she's behaving differently toward Renee now. She pushed Renee away when she tried to help. "After coming home, Renee wanted to unpack and get close to her, but Aunt Kaitlyn coldly rejected her. It's like she doesn't want Renee around at all. It's not the same Aunt Kaitlyn we knew."

Zuko and Lina exchanged worried glances. They had seen Kaitlyn before and knew she was kind-hearted and gentle, even when she was sick. This sudden change in her behavior was indeed strange. Toph continued, speaking softly. "Yesterday, she scolded Renee until she cried. Renee cooked for her, but Aunt Kaitlyn got angry because the food was mildly flavored. With her kidney disease, she can't handle heavy flavors."

Toph added, "I tried to persuade Renee to come with me today, but she insisted on staying with her mom to take care of her."

Lina comforted, "Don't worry too much. Falling sick repeatedly and undergoing major surgery might have changed her mentality. It's natural for her to act differently now."

Zuko agreed. "Lina is right. Let's not stress about it. Aunt Kaitlyn is Renee's mom, and she needs our care."

Toph nodded, and they all returned to enjoying their afternoon tea.

Meanwhile, Zuko gazed thoughtfully toward the distant sea.

The Thompson Group began several real estate projects, with Sam again leading the design team. Lina collaborated with him, and their joint efforts in publicity proved highly effective. During this time, Lina worked tirelessly, even sleeping in the design studio, seeking guidance from experienced senior engineers.

Zuko found himself in a tough situation, alone in the empty house, facing an outbreak of pimples on his nose. Whenever he felt unhappy, he sought solace at Lina's home.

This led to some interesting conversations between Nicholas and Linda at the Thompsons.

The first day Zuko visited: "Zuko, you're here!"

By the fifth day: "Zuko, why are you here again?"

Tenth day: "Zuko, it's you again!?"

Fifteenth day: "Zuko, planning to move back in with Pammy? Why do I only see you and not my daughter?"

On this particular day, Zuko paid another unexpected visit to the Thompsons and ran into Chris.

Excited about replicating new dishes from Splendor Hotel, Zuko forgot his differences with the Michelin-star chef and rushed into the kitchen, where he came face-to-face with Chris. Chris was wearing an apron and surrounded by cooking smoke. He widened his eyes at the sight of Zuko. "Zuko, you..."

Zuko grabbed another apron and readied himself for the kitchen battle, asking, "What about me?"

Chris laughed while carrying a plate of unevenly cut potato shreds. "Did Lina kick you out during your honeymoon?"

Zuko's expression darkened, and he felt the urge to punch someone.

The two of them clashed and made a mess in the kitchen. Just then, Lena walked in, scowling at the chaotic scene they had created. Her sharp gaze intimidated the usually imposing men. "You two, clean this up!" Lena's voice was commanding. "If it's not spotless, there will be no dinner tonight!"

With that, she turned and left.

Chris was dumbfounded while Zuko took out his phone confidently.

"I won't be cleaning up. I'm going back to accompany Lina—"

As Zuko was about to finish speaking, Lina called. "Honey, I'll be working overtime tonight. Make sure you eat well by yourself!"

Zuko was astonished.

Not only was he unable to spend the evening with his wife again, but he also had to clean the kitchen with Chris!?

"What kind of sin have I committed?" he muttered through gritted teeth.

Seeming to enjoy his misfortune, Chris handed him the plate of shredded potato and patted his shoulder. "Mr. Zuko Hamerton, hard at work!"

"I have to ask." Zuko glanced at him. "When are you going to get that girl?"

"Huh?" Chris blushed, his ears turning red. "What... What are you saying?"

Zuko smirked. "I'm asking when you're going to make her yours? You're a sniper, right? You can take someone out with a single shot, right?"

Chris hesitated for a moment, looking at him as if he were an alien, then bluntly said, "She hasn't committed any crime. Why would I shoot her? As snipers, our duty is to protect people's lives and property in critical moments. We shouldn't abuse our authority or casually use firearms..."

Zuko rolled his eyes. How could Chris not understand? When he said "take someone out with a single shot," he did not mean it literally!

Chapter 1299

Chapter 1299

Zuko looked increasingly frustrated as Chris remained perplexed, prompting several exasperated eye rolls.

While Zuko cleaned the kitchen, Chris followed closely, asking, "Why did you tell me to shoot her? That's not like you at all, without reason!

"Is there something bothering you? Did she offend you in some way?

"But, Zuko, that doesn't add up. You don't hold grudges over trivial matters, especially not with a young girl!

"Zuko, what's-"

"Enough!" Zuko's frustration turned his face red, and he growled, "Just get back to work!"

Chris was taken aback. He scratched his head and offered a friendly smile, even though he didn't quite understand the situation.

Chris efficiently handled all the dirty and tiring work throughout the kitchen cleanup, thanks to his military background and cleaning skills.

"When I first joined the army, I was assigned to the mess hall." Chris laughed.

Zuko raised an eyebrow. "Then why didn't you stick with that?"

"I was ambitious back then, focused on becoming a real special forces soldier. I wasn't happy with the assignment but couldn't openly voice my dissatisfaction, so I wrote it all down...

"Little did I know, a comrade discovered my notes and reported it to the higher-ups. That's how I got the chance to become a sniper."

Zuko chuckled. "If that comrade of yours hadn't talked so much, you might have become a five-star chef by now! We could've offered you a position at Splendor Hotel!"

Chris playfully grabbed a ladle, threatening to hit him. "I swear, you're becoming more and more like your brother!"

Zuko smirked. Marriage had changed him. He used to be reserved and serious, but now he cracked jokes and felt like a different person.

As Chris finished cleaning, he leaned against the refrigerator to chat.

"Speaking of writing secrets down..." He glanced around and then whispered, "I've made a significant discovery!"

"What is it?"

Chris gestured outside. "I've noticed Lena has a habit of writing in a diary."

"Huh?" Zuko blinked. "How do you know that? Did you sneak a peek at her diary?"

"No way." Chris glared at him. "I accidentally found that diary! Once, when I visited the Thompsons, I discovered a notebook in the courtyard. It looked pretty old and had a lock on it! Later, I saw her rushing into the yard, searching for something. I figured she must be looking for that notebook.

"I was afraid of annoying her, so I put the notebook back where I found it and quickly found a hiding spot!"

Zuko couldn't help but chuckle at this.

Chris faced deadly enemies without batting an eye, yet he was actually afraid of Lena?

Zuko patted his shoulder, giving him a knowing look. "But how can you be sure it's a diary?"

Chris thought for a moment, then chuckled. "Even if it's not a diary, it probably contains something very important to her."

"It might have something to do with you," Zuko said,

"Huh?"

Chris was caught off guard, and his ears involuntarily turned red.

Zuko had just finished arranging the plates when he noticed Chris seemed lost in thought.

Zuko waved his hand. "Hey, what's wrong?"

"Oh... nothing."

"When I said 'it might have something to do with you', I was just talking randomly. You took it seriously?" Zuko teased.

"Zuko Hamerton!"

The two men were like a pair of perpetually young boys, making a ruckus in the kitchen again.

At that moment, the kitchen door swung open with a bang.

Both of them froze simultaneously. When they saw Lena's icy expression at the door, Chris quickly lowered his head, pretending to be busy with cleaning.

Chapter 1300

Chapter 1300

Zuko glanced at Chris.

He was really lacking backbone! What on earth did this girl have that made a tough special forces soldier like him so afraid?

Zuko cleared his throat a couple of times, then copied Chris by bending down to clean the kitchen floor.

Lena did not pay any attention to them. She opened the fridge and took out ribs, abalones, chicken wings, sea cucumbers, and even an Australian lobster. She then preheated the steamer and the oven and donned an apron.

Zuko asked softly, "Lena, are you cooking?"

Lena's face remained expressionless as she replied, "Yes."

"Such a sumptuous dinner?"

Nicholas and Linda were getting older, so they usually had light dinners to avoid putting too much strain on their bodies. At most, they would have some soup or consume nutritional supplements.

However, the spread Lena was preparing looked like a feast. 'Perhaps it is intended for Chris?' he wondered.

The two men exchanged knowing smiles, understanding each other without words.

"Oh, Lina's been working hard lately, so I'm making something nice for her to replenish her strength," Lena explained as she started seasoning the ingredients, preparing to roast some chicken wings. Chris tentatively asked, "Uh... Are you making this for Pammy?"

Lena turned to give him a faint look, thinking, 'Who else could it be for if not for my sister?'

"Heh, Lena, this is quite a coincidence." Chris chuckled. "Zuko just got a call from Pammy. She said she's working late and won't be coming home for dinner tonight."

"Working late?" Lena furrowed her brows, crossed her arms, and sighed. She then returned the delicacies to the fridge, leaving Zuko and Chris dumbfounded.

"Uh..."

"Mr. and Mrs. Thompson have already had their soup. So, there won't be anyone having dinner at home tonight."

"No, wait..." Chris responded before Zuko. "The two of us don't count as people?"

"Oh, you two?"

Lena's clear, big eyes seemed innocent and pure, but Chris felt like she implied, "Oh, you two? Are you two even considered people?"

Zuko couldn't help but stifle a laugh, feeling that it was getting awkward to stay there. As such, he decided to head home.

However, just as he was about to leave the kitchen, Lena called out, "Zuko!"

Zuko felt like he had been caught off guard. "Huh?"

"Zuko, wait a moment," Lena said with a straight face. "Lina will be working late tonight. If you have nowhere to eat, you can stay here for dinner! And you..."

She turned to Chris. "If you don't mind, I can whip up something simple for you guys."

Zuko's ears were buzzing. "Wait, what did you just offer?"

"Dinner," Lena repeated calmly. "You're Lina's husband, so you're basically a Thompson. Since I'm here to take care of the Thompsons, it's only natural that I offer to make you dinner." Seeing Zuko's slightly defeated expression, Chris couldn't hold back any longer.

"Haha, Zuko... so you're officially a Thompson now? Hahaha!"