Chapter 1003

The next day, Kevin brought his parents, wife, and children to visit Violet. He also brought a generous selection of gifts.

Violet had already heard about Kevin’s promotion the previous night—Carissa had told her. Initially, it didn't impress her much; after all, it was just a promotion. However, when she saw Kevin arrive with his entire family to express their gratitude, her mood changed. Everyone's faces beamed with joy, as if they had stumbled upon a treasure chest. Their elation was palpable.

Violet felt the joy of his promotion firsthand. Upon learning more about it, she understood its rarity. In the king's service, promotions weren't easily earned. Unless someone accomplished a great feat, such as saving the king, it could take years—many long years—to advance.

However, faced with Kevin's family's deep gratitude, Violet felt undeserving. She hadn't contributed to his success; it was entirely due to Kevin's hard work and determination.

Later, Kevin asked his family to return home, leaving him alone at Hell Monarch Estate. He felt some things needed to be said beforehand to prevent misunderstandings or awkwardness later.

After his explanation, he said, "This is just my guess, of course. We can't know for certain what His Majesty is thinking. Regardless, I'll focus solely on fulfilling my duty with sincerity. If there's a shortcut that violates my conscience, I won't take it. I won't worry you or my martial aunt in any way, Sage Violet."

Carissa raised an eyebrow, about to speak, but seeing Violet's approving expression, she refrained. It seemed she was now the martial aunt of Violet's apprentices.

The king's sudden promotion of Kevin clearly signaled his abandonment of Barrett, who had deeply disappointed him. Salvador had repeatedly protected Barrett, but Barrett's sudden resignation was a betrayal. Salvador was likely furious.

After Kevin left, Violet felt a sense of pride. "I didn't choose the wrong one after all. That kid truly has potential."

Carissa laughed. "Kid? He's actually older than you."

Violet leaned back, smiling and crossing her arms. She adopted a relaxed, nostalgic expression.

"Age doesn't matter; seniority does. In the Spencer family, I'm already an old aunt. I have grandnieces and nephews older than me—some even married. Also, I have many nephews. Every time I visit my family, I'm surrounded by a dozen children, all calling me 'Aunt Violet.' It's incredibly noisy."

Carissa gazed at the hazy lights outside, lost in a similar memory. After returning from Meadow Ridge, her younger nieces and nephews would excitedly gather around her. As they grew older, they remained close, offering her quiet companionship.

Turning, Carissa saw Violet squatting, hands on her knees. Unsteady emotions were visible in her eyes; Carissa saw guilt and a hint of tears. Violet's expression was one of innocent sorrow, like a dog that had misbehaved and was seeking forgiveness.

Carissa burst out laughing.

"What are you doing down there? Sage Violet, you'll lose all your dignity squatting like that!"

"I deserve it," Violet said, lightly slapping her cheek. "I've been speaking out of turn lately."

Carissa gently cupped Violet's face and playfully flicked her nose. "Am I really that fragile? Do you have to worry about my feelings every time you speak? I'm not that sensitive."

Violet immediately hugged Carissa. "No, you're strong. I'm the sensitive and fragile one. I don't handle things well."

Just then, Travis entered and saw them together. He snorted, about to leave, but then noticed the gifts on the table. He stopped and approached.

"Who brought all these gifts?"

Carissa smiled, resting her chin on Violet's head. "Travis, always looking for presents."

"You two won't appreciate them anyway," Travis shrugged. "Rather than letting them gather dust, I'd rather take them. And Carissa, if you don't want the gifts your aunt brought, you can give them to me."

Violet grabbed a cup and threw it at him. "Dream on! Where's Prince Rafael?"

Travis caught the cup. "Don't waste things. His Highness won't be back until late, probably midnight. He's dealing with urgent matters."

"That busy, huh?" Violet asked. "Did you get any news about the case I asked you to check with Ryan's uncle? Is it true the abandoned embroiderer committed suicide?"

Violet still felt there was more to the story. Why choose death when other options might exist?

"I checked. It was definitely suicide," Travis replied, unwrapping a gift containing Evergreen Root, royal jelly, and jewelry. "I wish everyone would just send gold and silver. That would be much better."

Chapter 1004