Question on Smart Thermostat Wiring

https://felixutvt287.unionquill.com/posts/repair-or-replace-your-ac-in-north-fort-worth-with-advice-from-comfort-experts

Question on Smart Thermostat Wiring Our older thermostat only has four wires and no C wire. The smart model I bought says it needs one. Is an adapter safe to use, or does that cause problems with the AC down the road? Trying to avoid a wiring mistake