Chapter 499

"Luna is my wife, not our mother," Andrew Smith said coldly as he descended the stairs, his military boots thudding heavily against the wooden floorboards. "A man taking care of his woman is only natural. You're not married yet—you wouldn't understand."

Joseph Smith flushed with anger. "Second Brother, you're spoiling her too much! What kind of wife expects her husband to bring meals to her room?"

"What kind of wife is like Luna?" Andrew whirled around, his gaze sharp as a blade. "She charged through a minefield without blinking. If I want to spoil her, that's my right."

Joseph choked on his retort. The memory of his last punishment from Andrew made his back ache faintly.

"Let me make this clear," Andrew stepped closer, his voice dangerously low. "You will show her respect. Or else—"

Joseph shrank back. He knew his brother never made empty threats.

The aroma of food drifted from the kitchen. Andrew turned away to serve the meal, leaving his younger brother standing dumbfounded.

Joseph suddenly thought of Rain Johnson—the girl who had always trailed after Andrew but never spared him a glance. If Rain had married him... would he have doted on her like this?

"Joseph!" Old Man Smith's roar snapped him out of his thoughts.

In the living room, the patriarch slammed his palm on the table. "The wedding will be held at the community canteen—twenty tables, simple and efficient!"

Andrew emerged from the kitchen carrying a tray, his expression calm. "Father, I have no objections."

"Andrew!" Ethan Smith shot to his feet. "You're just letting them—"

"Ethan!" Old Man Smith barked. "Mind your own household! Get out of here before you cause more trouble!"

Ethan stormed out, the door slamming hard enough to rattle the windows.

Andrew didn't even glance up as he carefully carried the tray upstairs. Luna was waiting for him.