Chapter 1021
Wayne remained unconvinced and continued to advise Yuvan.
“Your Highness,” he said, “once your ambitions are realized, you will have no shortage of women to choose from. At that time, you may find Violet no different from any other.”
Yuvan’s expression darkened. “That’s enough.”
An unexpected wave of frustration surged within him, overwhelming him like a tidal wave. He couldn't control it.
“I have lived a simple, restrained life for these years,” he said, “keeping my desires in check, suppressing my nature, and avoiding mistakes. I’ve been tempted, yes, but I resisted, knowing indulgence would ruin everything. But Violet Spencer is different. She is the first woman I’ve desired who is also useful—the perfect candidate to help me achieve my goals.”
Wayne was alarmed and furious. For the first time, he sharply reprimanded Yuvan.
“Your Highness, are you saying you have feelings for Violet? That you are in love with her? If so, let me tell you—it’s not love. It’s a flimsy excuse for despicable behavior; lust disguised as affection. If you truly cared for her, you wouldn’t be plotting to ruin her reputation. I’ve told you the drug could be fatal, yet you hesitated not at all.”
Yuvan’s face flushed with anger. Embarrassed and enraged, he threw caution to the wind.
“Fine! So what if I have those thoughts? And how dare you call me despicable? Many men have multiple wives and concubines, and mistresses besides! Compared to them, I’ve lived an ascetic life! Must you make a fuss over one or two instances? Remember your place. You are merely my strategist! My choices are none of your concern.”
Wayne didn’t back down. His voice grew colder. “Your Highness, if your aspirations are merely to pursue women and indulge fleeting desires, then I wish you all the best in your future; I will have no part in it. I hope your ambitions are realized and your future is bright.”
An oppressive silence fell over the room. Yuvan’s face flushed and paled, but he managed to restrain his anger, softening his tone.
Chapter 1021 (Continued)
“Wayne,” he said, “don’t say such things. It would hurt my feelings. I don’t act on impulse. I’ve always valued and followed your advice. Perhaps my recent failures in the capital have put me in a foul mood, leading me to consider this as a means of relieving myself. It’s just a woman, after all. If you disapprove, I will drop it.”
Wayne knew his words risked offending Yuvan, but he pressed on earnestly.
“If I completely opposed this, Your Highness, I wouldn’t have provided the drug. I only hope you remain clear-headed and rational. Violet is a tool. Even if you take her body, it must be for the sake of your ambitions—not fleeting lust ignited by her beauty. Lust is a whirlpool, Your Highness, that will drag you down and leave you with nothing.”
Yuvan seethed with humiliation and rage. He never imagined his first argument with Wayne would be about this. He held his tongue, suppressing his anger, and left without another word.
Molly and Fiona had already welcomed guests. They were chatting and laughing in the main hall, but the atmosphere was growing awkward. Molly kept subtly undermining Fiona’s remarks. Earlier, at the door, Molly had felt disrespected and worried that Violet might have overheard, harming her standing as Yuvan’s princess consort. She now seized every opportunity to make veiled jabs, attempting to restore her pride and vent her anger. Fiona, despite her usual composure, barely controlled her temper. The situation was made worse by the Hell Monarch’s presence; their bickering like petty housewives was disgraceful.
Fortunately, the awkwardness didn’t last long. A servant announced, “Prince Yuvan has arrived.”
The group rose as Yuvan entered, his demeanor regal and commanding.
“Apologies for intruding on you today, Uncle Yuvan,” Rafael said.
Yuvan smiled, patting Rafael on the shoulder. “I’ve visited your estate many times, but you’ve always been too busy. I thought you might be upset with me.” His gaze drifted lightly over Violet. Her makeup-free face possessed a captivating, pure beauty.