Chapter 364

Upon hearing Carissa's obedient response, Adrian extended his hand and beckoned her over.

"Come here."

Carissa obediently walked over, and Adrian reached out to flick the tip of her nose.

"Ouch!" Carissa exclaimed. "Sage Adrian, that hurt."

"Punishment!" Adrian said sternly. "This is a mild punishment for not speaking up when needed."

A flicker of pain crossed Carissa's eyes, but she quickly masked it. "Understood. It won't happen again."

Adrian noticed her fleeting expression of distress, and sighed inwardly. The hardships that his youngest apprentice had endured were too painful. He couldn't start thinking about them, or it would be too taxing on his heart.

He took her hand, guiding her to sit beside him.

"Rafael's character and virtue far surpass Barrett's. I believe he won't let you down or treat you poorly. But remember, the world is ever-changing, and so are people. In the past, he might have cherished you more because he couldn't have you. Now that he's married you, the