Chapter 494

Luna White held Andrew Smith's arm as they returned to the Smith residence, their hands full of shopping bags. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground.

"Tired?" Andrew asked softly, giving her palm a gentle squeeze.

Luna shook her head with a faint smile. "Just these health supplements for your parents are a bit heavy."

They had agreed to only bring essentials for the family, saving other purchases for when they returned to Yun Province. Traveling long distances with too much luggage was inconvenient and risked damage.

As they stepped into the living room, they found Mrs. Wei sitting primly on the sofa. A polite smile graced her lips, but a trace of unease flickered in her eyes.

"Andrew, Luna, come sit," she greeted warmly, her fingers absently tracing the rim of her teacup.

Andrew guided Luna to the couch, immediately noticing his stepmother's tension.

Mrs. Wei was mentally tallying wedding expenses. Between Andrew's military comrades, friends, and relatives from both families, they'd need at least twenty tables—not accounting for last-minute guests. She bit her lip, strategizing how to maintain propriety while cutting costs.

"Auntie, you seem pale. Are you feeling unwell?" Luna asked with concern.

Mrs. Wei forced a brighter smile. "Just wedding planning." She hesitated. "I thought we'd hold it at the First Dining Hall. It's not as grand as the Third, but more budget-friendly—"

Andrew cut in cheerfully, "Whatever you arrange is fine, Auntie. Luna and I don't care about pomp."

Luna nodded. "Simple is perfect."

Mrs. Wei exhaled discreetly, her smile turning genuine. "Then the invitations—"

"We'll handle those," Andrew interjected, his gaze softening at Luna. They'd already shared their most meaningful vows during their border ceremony—no banquet could compare.

The moment shattered as Andrew's elder brother barged in. "Hold on! My little brother deserves a proper wedding!" Arms akimbo, he fixed Mrs. Wei with a challenging stare. "I'm overseeing this."

Mrs. Wei's smile froze, her teacup trembling slightly.