Ch. 1451..1460

Chapter 1451

Chapter 1451

Zuko hesitated, unsure of what to say. In fact, Lena had returned last night and had been waiting outside the delivery room. After learning that Lina and the baby were safe, she quietly left.

Lina had just given birth, and her incision had not healed yet. The doctor had advised against emotional fluctuations at this time to avoid affecting her recovery. As such, Zuko smiled and said, "Don't worry. Lenny's been concerned about you."

"Really..." Lina sounded a bit disappointed. "She's concerned about me but hasn't replied to any of my messages?"

"Didn't Chris say that the signal is poor in the mountainous area? Even if she replied, you might not receive it."

"Oh," Lina said, lowering her gaze. She was exhausted after giving birth and just wanted to get some rest.

Zuko kissed her forehead and whispered, "Rest well. I'll be here with you and the baby."

Lina closed her eyes, feeling at ease.

She did not know how long she had slept, but she suddenly heard a baby's cries. Her eyelids felt heavy, and she did not want to open them. Despite that, she jolted awake, realizing she was a mother now, and that cry was her baby's!

She quickly opened her eyes and turned to look at the baby carriage.

"Zuko, is the baby hungry..."

"Yes." A soft and familiar voice suddenly echoed.

Lina thought she had misheard it, but she saw that beautiful and familiar face as she looked up.

She was at a loss for words for a while.

"Sis, the baby is hungry." Lena pushed the baby carriage closer with a smile. "Aren't you going to feed her?" "Lenny..."

"Lina, the baby's crying!"

Lina's heart clenched, and tears welled up in her eyes. She hastily wiped them away.

At the same time, a nurse entered the room with a bottle of prepared formula and carefully fed it to the baby.

Lena sat by Lina's bed, gently wiping away her tears.

"They say you shouldn't cry during this time. It's not good for recovery."

"I..." Lina giggled.

"Look at you crying and laughing like a child." Lena chuckled, looking at her. "What's this? Are you getting a pregnant brain? You've turned silly after having a baby?" Lina raised her hand to playfully hit her. "You meanie!"

Lena hugged her gently and looked at the baby the nurse was holding.

The little one had finished drinking and was now contentedly closing her eyes, her small mouth making sucking motions. It seemed like she was having a sweet dream. Lena's smile was sincere. "She's so adorable! Does she have a name yet?"

"Not yet."

"Something Thompson..." Lena giggled suddenly. "No, no, she's a Hamerton! Hamerton's a good last name!"

Lina looked at her, feeling like everything was surreal. Lena had departed just a few months ago, yet the absence of any communication during this time felt incredibly long. "Lina, why didn't you feed her just now?" Lena asked.

"Mrs. Hamerton had a C-section," the nurse replied with a smile. "Mothers who have had a C-section usually don't produce milk as quickly. So, the baby will have to drink formula for the first few days." "C-section?" Lena widened her eyes. Did that mean they cut through several layers of the abdomen? It must have been so painful...

Chapter 1452

Chapter 1452

Lena sat by the bedside, holding Lina's hand, and murmured, "Why isn't it men who go through childbirth... Now you have to endure this pain."

"What are you saying?" Lina suppressed her laughter, fearing her incision might open.

"Isn't it true?! Why should women bear all these pains?" Lena thought about her time teaching in the mountainous area and the plight of those girls from impoverished families. It stirred up a mix of emotions. "Sis, when I saw those girls during these past few months in the mountains... I couldn't help but feel bad for them."

Lina responded softly. "Tell me about it."

"I don't have much education, so I could only teach them P.E. there." Lena chuckled. "But I noticed that these girls were still very restricted even during P.E. classes.

"The people in that area have conservative mindsets. Some even believe that girls shouldn't go to school. They don't even have a decent pair of sports shoes. They wear hand-me-downs from their brothers that are either too small or too big, making it impossible for them to attend classes.

"Then there are some girls who are promised to someone at a young age, waiting to grow up and marry into the other family in exchange for money. The money is kept for the boys in their families to use when they get married...

"The healthcare conditions there are also underdeveloped. Some girls don't even have sanitary pads. If they soil their clothes and return home, they'll get scolded. Every time that happened, I wished I could drag the person scolding them out and give them a good beating!"

Lina's eyes were filled with emotions. She knew that Lena was not great at expressing herself, but she had an overflowing sense of justice and was extremely emotional. Having gone through hardships and being mistreated as a child, Lena particularly detested those who abused or mistreated girls.

Lina felt a twinge of sadness and patted Lena's hand.

Lena added with a smile, "Luckily, our little baby is very fortunate to be born in your womb."

"Our?" Lina smiled.

"Of course!" Lena said seriously, "I have a part in this. I'll raise her with you!"

Giggles and joy filled the room while two grown men stood stunned at the doorway, exchanging puzzled looks.

"Chris, explain to me now. When did the child become hers?"

Chris awkwardly smiled. "Well..."

"It's my daughter!"

"Calm down... It's my daughter too, alright? I'll raise her with you, too!"

"Get out!"

"Oh, don't forget about me!" Suddenly, a voice came from behind them.

They turned around and saw Toph approaching them, illuminated by the sunlight. Arya stood beside him, smiling as she handed them a sealed envelope.

"A small token of my affection. Zuko, you must accept it!

"By the way, what were you talking about just now, raising her together? You mean the little princess?" Toph recovered to his carefree self. He patted his chest. "Leave it to Uncle Toph! Tell the little princess tha Uncle Toph is rich! Uncle Toph's sold his comic copyright! Hahaha..."

"Oh, congratulations!" Chris' eyes gleamed. "Let's get the little princess a pair of gold bangles first!"

"It's on me!"

Zuko wondered why so many people suddenly wanted to share in raising his daughter.

The birth of the little princess brought great joy to the Hamerton family, which had always been dominated by males and lacking females. Not only were the uncles and aunts filled with adoration and envy, but her grandparents also could not get enough of her.

Zephyr leaned over his granddaughter's crib every day to entertain her. On the other hand, Cordelia had turned into a doting grandmother with a cleanliness obsession, setting all sorts of rules for Zephyr-he could not touch the baby's face without washing his hands or go close to the baby without shaving.

Cordelia used to turn a blind eye when he smoked, but not anymore he could not even have a hint of tobacco on him.

Otherwise, his allowance would be cut!

Zephyr complained bitterly to his son, "Zuko, do you know what the worst your mother asks of me?"

"What?"

"She won't let me breathe directly in front of my granddaughter!"

Chapter 1453

Chapter 1453

Zuko forced back a laugh. "Uh, dad... Actually, mom isn't entirely wrong..."

"Hmm?"

Zuko began a serious explanation. "You really can't breathe directly before a newborn. She's still so tiny, and what you breathe out is carbon dioxide, while she needs fresh oxygen, so..." "You ungrateful brat!" Zephyr finally used his mother's words against his son.

From then on, though, Zephyr developed a talent for holding his breath. When facing his granddaughter, he could not only stop breathing but also maintain a loving and radiant smile simultaneously. The most wonderful part was that he could hold his breath while he cradled his granddaughter until she fell asleep. Afterward, he'd gently put her in her crib and release a long breath.

Toph watched in amazement and whispered to Zuko, "Dad's skills are good enough for him to enter an ancient tomb! He doesn't even need to breathe!"

Before Zuko could laugh, they saw Zephyr glare at them.

No living creature was allowed to make any noise while the little princess was asleep! Not even the cat they kept at home!

Toph tiptoed out stealthily.

Another major issue was choosing the little princess' name. Zuko could not find one that sounded right, and while Lina suggested several, she felt they were too soft and lacked a certain vigor. She hoped her daughter would be confident and assertive, just like Cordelia and Janine.

Nicholas chuckled with a pat on his head. "What are you all worrying about? I've already thought of my granddaughter's name!"

"What is it?"

"Peach!"

Lina couldn't help but giggle. When she stayed silent, Nicholas believed he had connected with his daughter and didn't notice the growing intensity of Linda's disapproving gaze.

"Your name is Pammy, and your daughter's Peach! How wonderful! When you have more children in the future, they can be Clementine, Apple, Cherry- Ow!"

He received a swat from Linda!

Zephyr smiled nonchalantly. "I see... You stayed uneducated!"

"You..."

"Enough!" Linda glared at him. "Stop naming them as fruits. Stand aside!"

Nicholas always cowered before his wife, so he immediately lowered his head and stepped aside.

In the end, it was Zuko and Lina who decided on their daughter's name-Persephone Hamerton.

"Persephone?" Cordelia thought about it. "It sounds lovely! The goddess of spring, then the goddess of the underworld... matches our families very well!"

"Mm!" Toph agreed. "Persephone sounds like she'll grow up into a fair lady! Heh, my niece will definitely grow up to be beautiful and attract many talented young men in the future!"

Everyone laughed, but Zuko's smile was a bit strained, and his gaze dimmed.

He went to the baby's room and felt mixed emotions as he looked at the sleeping baby on the princess crib from afar. How many more years could she stay nestled in his arms, and how many more years could he dote on her?

She would always be his baby, but he would ultimately lose to the man she would spend the rest of her life with.

Zuko chuckled. He thought about how Lina was the same. She married him, gave him a child, and was his partner for life.

One generation followed another-it was all like this. Parents would grow old, children would grow up, but the loving partner by one's side would never leave.

Thinking of this, Zuko went back. The others had already left, leaving Lina to rest. He gently sat beside her and leaned down to kiss her forehead.

Lina opened her eyes and smiled.

"Honey..."

"Yes?"

"I..." Zuko held her hand. He rarely said the three words to her because he found them cheesy. Moreover, the Hamerton men were not known for their verbal expressions of affection-they preferred to show it through actions.

Today, however, he whispered in her ear, "I love you."

Lina blushed. Even though she had already given birth to his child, she still felt like she had just fallen in love.

"My wife, I love you."

Chapter 1454

Chapter 1454

Lina gave him a gentle nudge. "I know."

"I really love you."

Her grin grew even brighter. "I know!"

"Honey, I..." Zuko wanted to say something even more affectionate, but Lena knocked on the door.

"Lina!"

Zuko took a deep breath with a helpless expression.

Lina smiled and let Lena in, but she noticed a few people accompanying Lena.

"Mr. Chriss?"

Elijah nodded, and Kasey also greeted them warmly.

Nala hopped around Lina's bedside. "Where's the little baby?"

"Hey, Nala!" Elijah hurriedly stopped her.

"It's okay." Lina smiled and patiently explained to Nala, "The baby is in the baby room next door. But she's asleep right now. How about you play with her when she wakes up?" Nala clapped her hands excitedly and ran over to Lena.

Elijah looked somewhat helpless and frowned, chiding Kasey in a hushed tone, "I told you not to bring her along. Look, she's just causing trouble!"

"What's the harm in that?" Zuko said warmly, "It's in a child's nature! Mr. Chriss, I have a daughter now too, and I wouldn't want to see anyone mistreat their daughter!"

The playful Nala made a face at her father and hid behind Kasey and Lena.

Elijah chuckled and had to surrender. He handed over a congratulatory gift and also his resignation.

"This is..." Zuko and Lina exchanged glances in slight surprise.

"I've thought about this carefully. I hope you both approve it."

Lina pursed her lips. She had known long ago that Elijah would not stay in the Thompson Group all his life. The Chriss family was not a major one, but it was still reputable in Centrolis. There must be things in the family waiting for Elijah.

Moreover, he had worked hard for the Thompson Group all these years. His contribution was essential to the company's secure foundation. It was well within reason that he took a step back after everything he had accomplished.

Kasey stepped forward and said quietly, "Mr. and Mrs. Hamerton, Elijah has been working for the Thompson Group for many years, and now he wants his own space and career. I hope you can understand." Zuko and Lina exchanged glances again and nodded.

"We wish you..." Zuko patted Elijah's shoulder with a smile. "Both a successful career and a happy family!"

He emphasized the word "family".

Lina noticed that Kasey blushed. Kasey's gaze at Elijah was different, too. Although she had a love-hate relationship with the man, her love had ultimately prevailed.

After chatting for a while, Kasey had to leave for something, and Elijah took Nala to look at the next room at the door.

"That's the little baby," Elijah said softly. "She's very small and cute, isn't she?"

Nala nodded. Her clear gaze was innocent as she looked at Elijah. "Dad, when are you and mommy giving me a little sister?" "Uh..." Elijah had no idea how to answer that.

This was when a gentle voice echoed from behind. "When your dad starts loving your mom, you'll naturally have a little sister."

Elijah looked up and saw Lena walking over. He sneered. "It can happen without love, too."

Lena's eyes were cold as she stared at him. "Mr. Chriss, I still believe that a child is the result of the parents' love. They're born to be cherished and to elevate the parents' relationship. Not like you..." "What about me?"

"You treat your wife like a tool!"

Elijah was rendered speechless. It was the first time in his life he had been confronted like that.

Chapter 1455

Chapter 1455

Lena giggled.

It seemed to possess some kind of magic as it instantly quieted Elijah down.

Elijah watched her in silence. There seemed to be a resemblance to someone in the way her eyes looked, like a familiar acquaintance. The strange feeling he had for her increased a little more. Elijah said in a low voice, "Lena, I've resigned."

Lena nodded. "I just heard in the room. Are you really not planning to continue at the Thompson Group?"

"I have my own things to do."

"Alright." Lena shrugged.

"You seem... not to care whether I stay at the Thompson Group?"

"Why should I care?" Lena looked at him sideways. "As long as you don't go against Lina, you can be anywhere. But if you dare to pick on the Thompsons, I'll bring you back from the ends of the earth." Elijah was at a loss for words.

Originally, he wanted to ask Lena if she would be willing to go to his family's company and work with him. After all, he needed help now. Instead of looking for someone else outside, it would be better to work with someone he knew well.

It seemed there was no need to ask now.

Lena would not go.

In her heart, no one was as important as Lina.

Despite that, Elijah was curious. It was previously said that Lena was the illegitimate child of the Thompsons. According to that logic, her protectiveness of the Thompsons was understandable. Now that it was clarified that Nicholas had no illegitimate children, why was she still so loyal?

And why did his Chriss family not have someone so loyal?

"Daddy, look!" Just as he was thinking, he heard Nala's sweet voice. "It seems like the little baby woke up!"

Elijah paused.

She did!

Persephone stretched out her little hands and kicked her tiny feet, making cooing sounds.

The nanny and maternity nurse hurriedly checked if she had wet her diaper.

Nala asked curiously while holding Elijah's hand, "Dad, was I like that when I was little?"

Elijah could not answer. He had not been involved in his daughter's growth.

Lena looked at him with disdain, took Nala's hand, and softly replied, "Every baby is like this when they are little. Look, doesn't the little baby look like a little angel?"

"Yes!" Nala held Elijah with one hand and Lena with the other, flashing them a sweet smile.

Chris happened to see the scene.

He was somewhat dazed, standing at the end of the corridor. Elijah, Lena, and Nala were holding hands-like a family. What was even stranger was that the expressions on the three of them and even the curves of their smiles seemed to look alike...

Chris' face fell.

Elijah clearly had a wife! Why was he getting so close to Lena?

He felt uncomfortable like there were knots tied on a string, and jealousy was fermenting in his heart.

He cleared his throat and walked over, deliberately standing next to Lena.

Nala saw his scowl and timidly let go of Lena's hand. Chris was inwardly impressed by Nala's keen eye. He took Lena's hand and held it tightly, intertwining their fingers.

"Nice to meet you, Mr. Chriss." He introduced himself politely, "I'm Chris Hamerton. We've probably met before."

Elijah smiled politely. The special forces member from the Hamertons and the only one who dared to change his name on his own accord... Who would not recognize him? "Mr. Hamerton, a pleasure to meet you."

"I heard that you've resigned?" Chris smiled, but there was a hint of coldness in his eyes. "In that case, I'd like to wish you a prosperous and successful future!"

"Thank you."

"But a word of advice." Chris looked at Nala and smirked. "With such a lovely daughter, perhaps you should prioritize your family! After all, Mrs. Chriss is quite wonderful. You are a perfect match to others!" "Uh..." Elijah's expression changed slightly. "You do no need to worry about it, Mr. Hamerton."

"Haha, of course, I'm not worried about you!" Chris said as he put his arm around Lena's shoulder.

Lena was momentarily stunned before meeting his indulgent gaze.

"I'm worried about our Lenny!" Chris emphasized the last part. "Our Lenny is so outstanding that I have to be on guard against those showing interest in her! Haha..."

Lena nudged him with her elbow and glared at him.

Elijah could clearly hear who Chris was talking about. Although he felt differently toward Lena, he would never pursue someone else while still having a family.

Even if he wanted to pursue Lena, he would have to divorce Kasey first... Previously, women like Jacquelin had been imposed on him by others.

Elijah smiled helplessly and excused himself, saying he had company matters to hand over before quickly leaving with Nala.

Lena turned to Chris. "What's the matter with you today?"

"Ah? I..."

"You've never spoken like that before."

Chris scratched his head, not sure how to respond.

He was clearly feeling jealous. He did not like seeing her getting close to Elijah or the way other men looked at her with glowing eyes...

It was just that saying these things would make him seem too petty, right?

Chris smiled awkwardly. He took her hand and tried to make amends. "Lenny, from now on, I won't..."

Lena pulled her hand away.

At that moment, Chris felt like his heart had fallen to the bottom of a valley.

In the next second, Lena put her hands on his shoulders, tiptoed, and gently kissed his lips.

Chris was stunned and delirious, and his mind went blank.

What was... going on?

She had taken the initiative to kiss him!

His dumbfounded look amused Lena, and she looked away, blushing.

"Lenny, you..."

"Good enough?"

"Huh?" Chris failed to follow. What did that mean?

Did it mean that she knew he was jealous and was physically showing him she would not have a change of mind?

Chris' heart pounded. He chuckled foolishly and suddenly picked Lena up.

"What are you doing?" Lena punched him without heat. "Put me down!"

"No!"

"Chris-"

Before she could finish, he silenced her with a deeper kiss.

That day, Lena learned an important lesson: never surprise a man! Especially someone like Chris, who radiated happiness and returned a kiss with a hundred times more affection. Chris said tenderly in her ear, "Lenny, come home with me."

Lena nodded dazedly.

"You didn't understand what I said." He chuckled softly. "I don't mean going back to the apartment."

"What?"

He looked into her eyes seriously. "Lenny, what I mean is, come with me to meet my parents, and then... let's get married! Okay?"

Chapter 1456

Chapter 1456

Lena stiffened momentarily, her mind in a daze. This was not the first time Chris had suggested going home to meet his parents and discuss marriage. Previously, when he had brought it up, she had found excuses to avoid the conversation. But this time, she did not know what excuse she could use.

Chris' gaze dimmed slightly. "Lenny, don't you want to come home with me?"

Lena bit her lip, her heart pounding. The more these moments came up, the less she could find the right words to say.

Chris was getting anxious. "Don't you want to marry me?"

Of course, Lena wanted to! She just was unable to say it.

Sometimes, she really disliked her personality-introverted, keeping everything inside, as if she were deliberately resisting communication with the outside world.

Chris took a deep breath and slowly let go of his hand around her waist. He turned away from her. When he turned back, he met her sparkling eyes. In those eyes, he glimpsed a moment of timidity, a side of Lena he had never seen before.

His heart clenched, and he stepped forward to hold her tightly.

"I know what you're worried about," he whispered gently in her ear. "Don't be afraid. I'm here for everything."

Tears welled up in Lena's eyes, and her hands gently stroked his broad back.

Persephone was approaching her first month. The little girl was no longer the wrinkled newborn from before. She had grown a lot, and her features were becoming more defined.

Cordelia and Zephyr praised her every day-even her effort while sucking on a bottle became a point of admiration for the two.

Nicholas stood by the crib, watching with a proud smile exclusive to grandfathers. "Little Sephy takes after me! They say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. I can see she takes after her grandfather!" Zephyr rolled his eyes, no longer wanting to argue with him.

The next moment, though, Linda pulled on Nicholas' ears!

"Can't you say something nice? Why does she have to be like you? Our Sephy is a princess. How can it be if she's as rough as you?"

Zephyr knew someone would deal with Nicholas and could not help but smirk.

At the same time, Zuko came in with a baby bottle.

Persephone opened her eyes as if sensing that her meal had arrived. She pursed her little mouth and let out a loud cry.

Zuko hurried to soothe her.

These days, he deeply understood how tough being a father could be. From being clumsy and frantic in the beginning to now being able to handle it easily, he knew exactly how much effort he had put in. Despite that, he still felt Lina had a harder time than him. At most, he took care of the child, but his wife had to give birth and trade her life for the baby.

This was why he tried his best to let Lina rest. When Lina had enough breast milk, he made her use a breast pump to store milk in preservation bags, ready to be heated and fed to the baby whenever she wanted. This way, Lina did not have to get up every time the baby needed to be fed.

Zuko gently picked up the baby from the crib. After a few soothing words, he carefully placed the baby bottle in her mouth. Persephone, although small in size, had quite a bit of strength. She sucked vigorously, and the bottle was emptied in no time.

Zuko lifted her upright, let her rest against his shoulder, and gently patted her back.

Persephone let out a burp, amusing everyone present.

Zuko gently laid her down in the crib once she had fallen asleep.

This series of actions left Chris dumbfounded.

"Bro..." He exclaimed, "You're amazing!"

"What's the big deal?" Zephyr smiled. "This is what a man should do, especially Hamerton men. We should never let our wives suffer any grievances!"

"Yeah!" Chris nodded. "I agree with what you just said, Uncle Z!"

Saying that, he looked at Lena beside him.

Chapter 1457

Chapter 1457

Lena lowered her head and remained silent, a faint blush creeping onto her face.

Persephone had fallen asleep, so Zephyr and Cordelia invited Nicholas and Linda to hang out elsewhere.

Zuko stretched, preparing to go to his study to deal with some work.

Chris patted his shoulder and gave him a signal with his eyes.

"What's up?"

"I need a favor." Chris grinned. "Let's talk in your study."

"But..." Zuko's gaze turned to Lena.

Lena chuckled. "I'll go chat with Pamym for a bit."

"Something's... not quite right with you two." Zuko immediately noticed the issue. "Chris, is what you're going to talk to me about the same as what Lena will discuss with my wife?"

"Get over here!" Chris grabbed and dragged him into the study.

Lena knocked on the door.

Lina had just woken up and greeted her with exceptional joy.

"Sis, don't move!" Lena hurriedly pressed her down. "You have a surgical wound!"

"It's healed already!" Lina smiled wryly. "It's been a month. Can't I move a bit?"

"I've had wounds, too," Lena said, looking at her. "Even someone as tough-skinned as me needed a month to recover. Not to mention you..."

"Lenny, it's different."

"Yeah, it is." Lena smiled bitterly. "A baby was born from your cut, but from mine..."

She did not continue, afraid that talking about the bloody details would frighten Lina. She quickly changed the topic. "By the way, I came to talk to you about something."

"What is it?"

"Chris... He..." Lena lowered her head, her hands twisting her clothes. "He said he wants to take me to meet his parents."

Lina's eyes lit up. She was genuinely happy for her. "That's great! Chris is a responsible man. After you marry him, he will definitely treat you well, and you'll be happy together!" "But..." Lena still had concerns. "Should I meet them?"

Lina was taken aback. "What are you talking about? If you're going to marry him, it's only right to meet his parents."

Lena remained silent for a long time, struggling with her feelings. Finally, she spoke softly. "I don't deserve him."

Those words hit like a stone. She hung her head, feeling choked up.

Lina's heart ached looking at how crestfallen Lena was, and she hugged her gently. "Silly Lenny, how do you not deserve him? You're the best to him!"

"No..." Lena was shaking, and her voice was also trembling.

Her father was unknown, her mother was a human trafficker, and she had grown up in a mountain village, enduring all the hardships of life.

She was willing to spend her life with Chris wholeheartedly but also understood that marriage and love were two different things. Love did not necessarily lead to marriage, but love could very well not exist within marriage-just like Elijah and Kasey.

Elijah might have liked someone before, but that woman's background was not as good as Kasey's. In the end, he obeyed his family's arrangement and chose Kasey.

"In a marriage, love may not be as important as we think." Lena became somewhat pessimistic. "Chris loves me now, but when he realizes the gap between us, all that love might turn into blame."

She added with a heavy heart, "Sis, I don't want to be blamed by him. I don't want this marriage to end in mutual hurt."

"Lenny..." Lina stroked Lena's face, not knowing how to comfort her.

Chapter 1458

Chapter 1458

In the study, on the other side.

Chris was also pouring his heart out to Zuko. "Lenny... She..."

"She's perfectly fine." Zuko chuckled. "Apart from her background, what doesn't match up with you? Besides, do we really need to consider family backgrounds when two people are together? You've always been unconventional! You even dared to change the name our great-grandfather gave you."

"I don't care about it, but Lenny is too levelheaded!" Chris smiled wryly. "While others lose their wits when they're in love, I feel like Lenny's IQ keeps increasing the more she's in love!"

"Don't be ungrateful!"

"I'm quite content," Chris said, looking at him. "But just this meeting-the-parents thing, you have to help me!"

Zuko looked at him disdainfully.

"Zuko, I don't care!" Chris started to act like a child. "If you don't agree today, I'll..."

"You'll what?"

"I'll come to cuddle your daughter every day!" Chris smirked. "I'll hold her to sleep and let her know how comfortable it is to be cuddled to sleep. Then, she won't sleep in her crib anymore! You won't be able to put her in bed for the whole night. You'll have to cuddle her all night long! If you don't cuddle her, she'll cry!"

"Chris! This is going too far!"

"So, your answer is?"

Zuko glared at him, gritting his teeth as he spat out one word: "Fine!"

Chris finally raised his eyebrows triumphantly and patted his shoulder.

"But I can't help much. At most, I'll just mediate."

"My dad is manageable." Chris glanced at him. "It's my mom who's more troublesome." "Alright." Zuko pursed his lips. "I'll consider it!"

Meanwhile, Lina held Lena's hand and softly asked, "Tell me the truth. Do you love Chris?"

Lena was momentarily taken aback. Did she really need to answer that? She was willing to give her life for him!

"Since you love him, why worry so much?" Lina chuckled. "You're too clear-minded. There's nothing so rational about love."

"Sis..."

"While it's important to have matching family backgrounds, the significance also means having similar values. If your values don't align and you can't even talk to each other, what's the use of a matching family background? Such a marriage will only bring more pain."

Lena pursed her lips, and the gloom in her eyes seemed to be slowly dispersing.

"Your background isn't so important. It's your character that matters. Besides, I believe Chris won't care about your background."

Lena frowned. "But, Toph didn't care about Renee's background at first either, and later..."

"It was Renee who started feeling inferior." Lina sighed. "Her mentality changed, and she placed herself in a humble position. That's why she couldn't see the sunshine in the world and our goodwill. "But, Lenny, I believe you're different." Lina looked at her. "You have a kind heart and integrity. You and Chris will go all the way."

"Really?"

Lina held her gaze and smiled, confidently saying, "I believe in you."

The thick ice in Lena's heart gradually melted. After a while, she smiled faintly.

'She believes in me,' Lena thought.

The most beautiful thing in the world was to be trusted by the person one cared about.

With Lina's encouragement, Lena finally agreed to meet Chris' parents.

Chapter 1459

Chapter 1459

Before going to meet Chris' parents, Lena had already heard Lina's introduction. Chris' father was Marco Hamerton-not particularly outstanding among the Hamerton descendants, but far from mediocre. Marco was knowledgeable and gentlemanly. He had little interest in business and had dedicated his life to archaeological research. He was also an honorary professor in the Ancient Literature Department at the University of Centrolis.

His wife, Fleur Warnock, also had quite a background. The Warnocks were a prominent military family, with ancestors stationed on the border that continued to this day. Many members of the Warnocks held important positions in the military, especially in border areas. Fleur's family played a significant role in maintaining peace on the border.

On their way to the meeting, Chris said, "Lenny, my mom's been pampered since childhood. Besides, my grandfather has several sons, but she's his only daughter. As such, she's been doted on. Her temper is a bit... Well, it can be challenging to deal with. She's not very nice to me either. When I was a child, I didn't dare to provoke her. If she says something unpleasant, you..."

"Don't worry." Lena's eyes were clear as she laughed. "I won't argue with the elders. And if they say something unpleasant, I'll take it in stride."

Since she had decided to come with him, she was ready to accept everything about his family.

Chris stopped in his tracks, speaking softly, "What I mean is, if she says something that makes you uncomfortable, don't be afraid. I'm here, and I'll stand up for you!" "Huh?"

"Don't you remember?" He looked at her. "The fine tradition of us Hamerton men is that we never let our women be wronged!"

Lena grinned and leaned gently against his chest. His strong and steady heartbeat gave her a sense of security.

The meeting was set at Splendor Hotel and was grand in scale.

Once Lena came close to the golden palace-like building, her heart thumped.

The hotel had been cleared, and the general manager came to welcome them personally. The servers bowed slightly in reverence by both sides of the red carpet. Lena carefully entered, hooking arms with Chris. Facing a menacing thug did not make her fearful, but she was feeling a bit weak in her knees right now. "Chris, this..."

Chris smiled gently.

Evidently, he was quite satisfied with this arrangement, so Lena did not say anything more. She tucked away her discomfort, trying her best to stay relaxed. Lena took a deep breath when they entered the private room and met Marco and Fleur.

Maybe it was because Lena was used to being friendly with Zephyr and Cordelia that she wasn't familiar with the idea of an upper-class family. In front of Marco and Fleur, though, she felt a bit more reserved. That was especially the case with Fleur. She sat straight, dressed in a fancy, colorful gown. She also had a matching shawl that added to her elegant aura. Even the fringes on her shawl screamed wealth.

Fleur silently observed Lena, examining her carefully. Lena's calm expression didn't reveal much.

"Lenny, these are my parents," Chris held Lena's hand and introduced her, "Dad, mom, this is Lena."

Lena respectfully nodded.

Marco had a welcoming smile and praised his son for his excellent choice. His down-to-earth demeanor put Lena somewhat at ease.

However, a cough interrupted their conversation.

With her arms folded before her chest, Fleur smiled slightly and looked at Chris. Her tone was tinged with sarcasm and arrogance as she said, "Son, is this the girlfriend you've chosen? Well, she looks so-so, doesn't she?"

Chris frowned in exasperation.

"Lena, right?" Fleur continued. "I heard you saved Granny Janine?"

"Mom..." Chris shot her a look.

He had repeatedly reminded her not to speak like this before coming here! He did not expect her to still... "What?" Fleur had an arrogant air. "Don't know what 'Granny' means? Can't understand Chaisene?"

Chris winced. "Mom, with your broken Chaisene, it's no wonder... regular people can't understand."

Chapter 1460

Chapter 1460

Fleur pursed her lips, adjusted her shawl, and shot him a proud look.

The dinner that followed was something Lena found amusing but could not laugh.

The dishes were plentiful, and the hotel's service was attentive. Marco was not that difficult to get along with, but Fleur...

"Let me be clear!" Fleur put down her cutlery, fiddled with her massive Kashmir sapphire ring, and glanced around before fixing her gaze on Lena. "Ms. Harding, the Warnocks are not just any ordinary household. It's not a place for just anyone, and..."

Marco coughed and weakly reminded her, "Dear, it's the Hamertons. The Hamertons..."

"Oh?" Fleur immediately raised her voice. "You old man, bad! When you were young, you pursued me and talked about marrying into my family! Into my family, understand?"

Marco coughed even harder.

Chris covered his face and shot an exasperated look at Lena through his fingers.

After their meal, Chris walked Lena back to the apartment and headed over to the Hamerton residence. As soon as he stepped inside, he spotted Marco and Fleur seated on the living room sofa. Interestingly, he had wanted to talk to them as well.

As Chris took a step inside, he caught Marco making exaggerated hand signals and gesturing toward Fleur while motioning for silence.

Amused, Chris chuckled and took a seat beside his mother, gently massaging her shoulders.

Fleur maintained her confident and proud demeanor, locking eyes with her son and sharing a seldom-seen, contented smile.

"Hmm, good massage. Seems you've been taking care of someone like this outside, haven't you?"

"Uh, Mom..."

"I know what you want to say." Fleur smoothed her hair and picked up the teacup before her. "Let's be direct then! I only have four words for your Ms. Harding-I do not approve!" "Mom, why?"

"What why?" Fleur frowned. "Look at what she was like when she was eating. A long face and not even smiling. Why would I need a daughter-in-law like that? So she can hurry me to my grave?" Marco said with a smile. "Dear, the young lady's mature and doesn't like smiling. It's not a bad thing! Chris needs a composed wife like that..."

"You close your mouth!" Fleur scolded him with a glare.

Marco could only get up to refill the hot water in the teapot.

"Mom!" Chris was getting anxious.

Zuko had already come to persuade her. Although Fleur was usually picky and had many faults, she admired Zuko, her eldest nephew, out of all Hamertons. A single word from his eldest cousin carried more weight than a hundred words from him. That was why he had asked Zuko to be the mediator!

It seemed that this mediator had failed.

"Mom, you've only met Lenny once. You don't know how good she is yet!"

"For some people, one meeting is enough!"

"Mom..."

"Anyway!" Fleur raised her voice. "Her family background, education, and experiences don't match up to yours in any way! I absolutely won't allow such a daughter-in-law to enter our home!" Chris froze, and his eyes betrayed a hint of sadness in his eyes.

"Y-You brat! Why are you staring at me like that?"

Chris did not say a word and left with a stern expression.