Chapter 1013

Since their arrival in the capital, Yuvan had repeatedly asked Molly to contact Violet, her blood relative, despite years of estrangement. He believed their familial bond would naturally strengthen with interaction. Carissa paled in comparison.

Unbeknownst to Yuvan, Molly was incompetent and prone to tantrums. After several failed attempts to contact Violet, she refused further efforts, claiming her cousin was judgmental. She added that, as a princess consort, she wouldn't tolerate such behavior; if a reconciliation were to occur, Violet should initiate contact.

This attitude baffled and angered Yuvan. To investigate any underlying animosity, he discreetly sent someone to inquire about their past relationship. He learned there was none; they had been close as children, losing touch only after Violet joined the Inferno Guild to study martial arts.

Yuvan considered this a readily mendable relationship. Violet's visit presented the perfect opportunity to repair their bond. He promptly sent for Molly, who soon arrived at his study with her maid, Plum.

She curtsied, appearing pleased. "You called for me, Your Highness?"

Yuvan observed her perform her usual casual, unrefined curtsy. Even after years as a royal consort, she hadn't learned proper etiquette. Her days were spent bickering with concubines and vying for his attention.

Suppressing his irritation, Yuvan said, "Your cousin, Violet, has arrived. I've invited her to the main hall. Join me shortly; you will host her for dinner. Use this chance to reconnect and improve your relationship. Be respectful—she is a guest, understand?"

Initially thrilled at being summoned to the study—a privilege usually afforded only to Fiona—Molly's excitement waned upon learning it was because of Violet. She considered her cousin insufferable and haughty, someone who disrespected her status as a princess consort.

"Did you hear me?" Yuvan pressed.

Molly composed herself. "Yes, I understand."

Yuvan stood and took her hand, guiding her toward the door. "Let's go. I'll greet her briefly and leave you to converse."

Molly hesitated, her gaze falling on their joined hands. A surge of warmth, a mixture of sweetness and bitter longing, filled her chest.

"What's wrong?" Yuvan asked gently.

Her voice trembled. "Your Highness, this is the first time you've held my hand."

Upon their marriage, she'd envisioned a loving relationship, a deep bond. Many had warned her that Yuvan, having married soon after his first wife's death, might be cold-hearted, but she refused to believe it. Before their engagement, during their only prior meeting, despite the age difference, his gaze had been tender and affectionate.

Initially, he had treated her well. But after returning to the capital, his affection had cooled. She wondered why—perhaps her lack of decorum had embarrassed him, or perhaps Fiona had sown discord.

Discouraged, yet regretful, she found herself now experiencing this simple gesture, a gesture withheld even on their wedding day.

Noticing her flushed cheeks, Yuvan smiled, his tone gentle. "Do you like it? If so, I'll hold your hand from now on."

Molly's heart fluttered. Though public displays of affection were uncommon, she truly appreciated it.

In the main hall, Violet stood, her cold expression tinged with fury. She turned at their approach, her eyes blazing at the sight of Molly. Ignoring Yuvan, she strode toward her cousin and slapped her.

"Molly Spencer, what have you done?!" Violet roared.

The slap stunned Molly; even Yuvan froze.

"Violet, have you lost your mind?" Molly retorted, touching her reddened cheek. "I'm a princess consort and your elder cousin! How dare you hit me?!"