Chapter 161

In the following days, the threshold of Northwatch Estate was nearly worn flat.

Once rarely visited by the wives of noble families and officials, the estate now saw a steady stream of visitors.

It wasn’t because Salvador had issued an edict, but because Carissa had returned in triumph. Though only she remained of the Duke of Northwatch's family, it was clear she was capable of upholding its prestige.

During her divorce, the wives of officials had often discussed Carissa in private gatherings. She had become a topic of their idle chatter. Now, the conversations about her were no longer casual gossip but carried a respectful undertone.

For Carissa, entertaining guests wasn’t a challenge. Before she married into the Warren family, Melanie had arranged for her to receive a year’s worth of training. Socializing was just a matter of playing the part—smiling, chatting, nodding, and following along with the conversation.

Everyone enjoyed themselves, laughing and chatting, and when it was