Chapter 245

That night, when they stopped at an inn, Rafael helped Carissa out of the carriage.

Summoning his courage, Ryan climbed out after them, trembling all over. He positioned himself between them, his tiny arms outstretched as he tried to shield Carissa from Rafael, glaring at him with hostility.

Fear gripped the child—his skinny legs shook uncontrollably, his lips quivered, and he made soft whimpering noises as he tried to drive Rafael away.

Both Rafael and Carissa exchanged bewildered glances.

What was going on? Was their approach having the opposite effect?

"Oh!" Carissa slapped her forehead, realizing the reason.

Ryan didn't know she was no longer Barrett's wife, and was unaware of her upcoming marriage to Rafael.

That night, aunt and nephew sat by candlelight and had a deep conversation.

Carissa knew she could no longer treat Ryan as a mere child. After two years of living on the streets and begging for food, he would understand more than she might expect if she explained thing