Messing With Her? Are You Crazy! novel Chapter 1458

As Jasper spoke, he helped his parents arrange the late-night spread across the table.

There was hot soup, congee, and several of Serena's favorite side dishes.

Steam wafted invitingly into the air.

Catherine ladled a bowl of hot soup and placed it directly in front of Serena. "Have some, Serena. It'll comfort you."

Serena looked at the bowl of soup. She took it, the coolness in her eyes melting into something softer. "Thank you, Mom."

She took a few sips, letting the warmth spread through her body before setting the spoon down.

Catherine sat beside her, gently taking her hand.

Her hands were warm.

Filled with a unique, maternal tenderness.

Catherine's eyes were slightly red, but she fought back her tears. "Serena, I'm not going to ask what you're planning to do."

"I won't ask where you're going. All I care about is that you come back safe."

The words hung in the air.

A sudden hush fell over the lounge.

Jasper, who had just been about to crack another joke, immediately snapped his mouth shut.

Jerrick lowered his gaze, his lips pressed in a tight line.

The usual mildness in Julian's eyes gave way to a raw, profound vulnerability.

And Serena felt as if something incredibly gentle had just brushed against her heart.

She looked down at Catherine's hands holding hers.

She was rarely held like this.

She rarely experienced this kind of unconditional warmth.

And rarely did anyone ever tell her they didn't care about the mission.

That they only cared about her safety.

She flipped her hand over to grasp Catherine's, gently patting the back of her mother's hand. "Mom, Dad, don't worry."

"I'll be safe."

"All of us will be safe."

Edward stood to the side, his face projecting stern authority, but the look he gave Serena was infinitely tender. "Serena, the Lancaster family isn't just for show."

"Whatever happens, don't shoulder it all on your own."

Serena looked up at him.

Her father's eyes were also slightly red, yet he forced himself to maintain his role as the stoic patriarch.

She looked around the room, her voice soft but resolute. "I have a grandpa who spoils me, Mom and Dad, and my brothers."

"I have a family now. I won't try to carry the weight alone anymore."

Catherine couldn't hold back anymore; the tears spilled over.

She quickly turned her head to wipe them away, her voice trembling. "Good, good... as long as you know."

Edward pulled her into his arms, murmuring comfortingly, "Alright now, the kid said she'll be safe."

"My heart just aches for her," Catherine choked out.

Jasper sniffled loudly but forced a bright, carefree grin to lighten the mood. "As long as you know it, Serena! You're not alone anymore. You've got a whole army behind you now!"

Jerrick added coldly, "Anyone who dares touch you will have to go through us first."

Julian smiled warmly. "The Lancasters have always been fiercely protective of our own."

Nicholas spoke up in a low voice. "And you have me."

Jasper instantly whipped his head around and glared at him. "Get to the back of the line!"

Nicholas's expression remained perfectly composed. "I have an official title."

Jasper was speechless.

He knew he shouldn't have given that bastard an opening to speak!