This statement left everyone in shock. Even the fact that Rebecca was rebuked by Sebastian was quickly forgotten.Everyone turned to look at Helen. What did she mean? Did the Hell Monarch want to marry Carissa? A royal prince wanted to marry a woman who had been divorced?It wasn't just the noble ladies who were surprised—even Eleanor was taken aback. She glanced at Helen, then at Carissa, her brows furrowing.Carissa also looked at Helen with a calm expression. This matter hadn't been settled yet, and no formal proposal had been made. Why did Helen announce it?Besides, didn't Helen despise her? No one had asked, and no rumors had spread. Yet here Helen was, announcing it herself.Had Helen accepted her? But the acceptance was so sudden, leaving people at a loss.Moreover, even if it was to be announced, this wasn't the right moment. Carissa had been criticized for so long, and it was rare for Sebastian to explain in front of the noblewomen why he didn't treat Rebecca. Now,
Carissa laughed softly, her demeanor unruffled. "I don't find myself embarrassed at all, but don't you feel any shame, Lady Jessica? "You're the daughter of a princess, and you were given a royal education. Yet, you speak such harsh words. You couldn't even recognize my senior's painting, and tore it apart in your ignorance. Such rashness is what will truly invite ridicule. "As for telling me to leave, are you issuing an eviction order? How amusing. Grand Princess Eleanor invited me here with a formal invitation, and I brought a birthday gift. Now, you want to chase me away? Is this how your family treats its guests? Or was there another intention behind that invitation—to humiliate me in front of these ladies? "Did you think that after my separation from Barrett, I would be too ashamed to show my face, and that I would quietly endure your insults?"She paused, her gaze sweeping across the room. "If you expected me to be a laughingstock by inviting me here, you'll be disappo
As Carissa walked away, Rafael followed suit.News of their departure quickly spread from the inner courtyard to the main court. The royal relatives and various civil and military officials present all learned that Rafael was about to marry Carissa.Men and women thought differently.Men valued heritage and purity, but they also placed great importance on benefits.Who was Carissa? Beyond being the daughter of the Duke of Northwatch and backed by her impressive background, she was also an apprentice of the Pathfinders Guild, with Kyle as her senior.The Pathfinders Guild wasn’t just a martial arts faction. Apart from Kyle, it was home to many extraordinary individuals. Currently, the leader of the Pathfinders Guild was Adrian Russell. He was the great-grandson of Blake Russell, who was the former Supreme Cavalry Commander, also known by his other titles of the Exotic Sovereign and the Annara Monarch.Adrian founded the Pathfinders Guild, and his influence extended over all the gu
Once Carissa finished writing down their orders, she showed them to Rafael. He reviewed it and said happily, "These are all to my liking. Let's go with this."Then, he turned to Dylan. "Dylan, take this and place the orders."Dylan nodded and took the paper, then went out to place the order. He returned shortly afterward."What happened in the inner courtyard? Did they doubt the birthday gift you brought and think it was a fake? Did they also try to bully you?" Rafael had a general idea, but wanted to hear it from her directly.Carissa took a sip of water to soothe her dry throat, and said, "They couldn't bully me, but there were indeed some who targeted me and didn't take me seriously."Lulu chimed in, "My lady, the last few things you said really frightened me. How could you dare to speak so boldly? What if Grand Princess Eleanor decides to retaliate?"Carissa replied, "Whether I say it or not, she was going to make things difficult for me anyway. I might as well get it off m
Just then, the waiter brought out the food to be served, and Carissa fell silent. She watched as each dish was laid out before them. Among them was her favorite—spicy stuffed peppers. Their vibrant red and green hues looked utterly appetizing.There was a variety of dishes, both spicy and mild options, and the fragrant aroma soon filled the room.Carissa was ravenous. She picked up her utensils, and addressed Rafael's earlier question. "When we left, Frederick mentioned that over the years, Lord Henry had taken many concubines. Most of them died after giving birth. I thought, if a concubine dies, it could be due to an accident or childbirth complications, but for so many to die—it's hard not to be suspicious."As she spoke, she picked up a stuffed pepper and placed it on her plate. She also served some to Rafael. "Try some of this. It's the star of all the dishes."Then, she spooned a small amount of red chili and green chili onto his plate."Okay." Rafael looked at the bright
Carissa also noticed that Rafael started coughing as soon as he ate, and his cheeks turned red from the coughing. Clearly, he wasn't used to spicy food. So why did he choose this restaurant?She moved the list of non-spicy dishes to his side, and said, "Even though you like spicy food, I think your throat is sore today. You should avoid spicy dishes for now and eat something lighter.""My throat does feel off," Rafael said, clearing his throat as he felt the lingering burn from the spices. It was quite uncomfortable."I'll have someone bring you a glass of milk," Carissa said, standing up to open the door to the private room. She called for a waiter to bring a cup of milk."Milk can help neutralize the spiciness," she said with a smile, as if comforting a child. "Drink up."Rafael took the glass of milk. It had a slight gamey taste, but it was cool and refreshing, making it bearable. More importantly, it was a gesture of her thoughtfulness.He appreciated her unspoken underst
Rafael continued to put food on her plate, but he avoided answering her question.Carissa suppressed her curiosity. After all, it wasn't a particularly important matter.He smiled, and deflected by saying, "After Grand Princess Eleanor's birthday banquet today, I'm sure there will be many new topics among the noble families in the capital."Carissa gave him a playful glare. "Yes, many noble ladies will have their hearts broken. When Lady Helen announced our engagement, many looked at me with disdain.""There will be many who envy and resent me," Rafael said meaningfully. At least Barrett would regret it. Even Salvador had been moved as well."Not really. Who would want a woman who has been divorced?" Carissa said. Rafael tapped her forehead lightly with the end of his spoon. "You're about to become the Hell Monarch's princess consort. Are you still belittling yourself?""Such is the way of the world." She tapped him back playfully, then quickly moved away, smiling. "I'm not b
After returning from Grand Princess Eleanor's birthday banquet, Rebecca fell ill. She developed a high fever in the middle of the night, and kept mumbling incoherently.Amelia urgently summoned a doctor, and Benjamin was sent to fetch Barrett, who was staying at an inn. At first, Barrett thought it was a trick, but upon returning and seeing his mother shivering uncontrollably and mumbling nonsensical words, he realized her condition was indeed serious.It was a rare sight, but Aurora also came over to help. She hadn't seen Barrett for several days. Her pride had prevented her from seeking him out, believing that this was still his home and he would eventually return.Barrett didn't look at her, but urgently asked, "Why did she suddenly fall ill? Why is it so severe?"Serena burst into tears. "What else could it be? It's all because of Carissa! She also attended Grand Princess Eleanor's birthday banquet. She took advantage of her upcoming marriage to the Hell Monarch, and had the au