Chapter 1023

Stephanie, initially apprehensive of Carissa, bristled at her words. "Carissa, how dare you slander me and ruin my reputation? What do you gain from this?"

Travis interjected sharply, "How dare you address the princess consort by her name?"

Carissa silenced Travis with a raised hand, then addressed Stephanie with dripping sarcasm. "You're quick to criticize, yet you remained silent when your mother was mistreated. Why? If fear silenced you, you should have at least served her properly. Don't forget, she bore you."

Stephanie, seething, began a retort, but Rafael's cold gaze halted her. She muttered resentfully, "What concern is this of yours? If you're so capable, why didn't you intervene? It's easy to criticize; why didn't you act?"

Carissa scoffed. "Excellent point! So, neglecting parental duty justifies criticizing others? I'll relay this to Mrs. Murray; she'll be delighted to hear your 'remarkable' perspective."

Yuvan's expression darkened. "Stephanie, show your cousin respect."

Stephanie glared at Carissa, but mumbled, "Yes, Dad."

Yuvan was far more disturbed than Stephanie. Carissa's words—a pointed jab at his treatment of his former wife—were delivered before Violet. His reputation hung precariously in the balance.

Rafael intervened, "Let's avoid unpleasantness today. We're here to enjoy ourselves; let's not spoil the mood."

Carissa, irritated by her husband's intervention, retorted, "What? I can't speak? I merely stated my aunt didn't deserve two ungrateful daughters and sons."

Yuvan flushed. Was this an accusation against the children? No, it was directed at him.

Rafael's brow furrowed. "Carissa, we're guests in Uncle Yuvan's home. Show some consideration."

Carissa glared. "Why are you taking their side? Am I wrong?"

Rafael sighed, "I'm not saying you're wrong, but the timing is poor."

The guests from Edgeview Estate exchanged uneasy glances. Their image of the couple's love was shattered by this argument. Even Wayne was uncertain of its authenticity.

Violet stepped forward to mediate. "My cousin invited us. Let's show respect and avoid anger. How about a walk with her?"

Molly, openly amused, enjoyed the spectacle. She disliked Stephanie and Sabrina's superior attitudes, finding Carissa's rebuke satisfying. She initially found Carissa's argument with Rafael foolish, believing her pride excessive. However, she respected Violet's intervention.

Molly suggested, "Our gardener's orchids and roses are blooming beautifully; let's admire them."

Carissa, initially reluctant, rose at Violet's urging. "Fine, I'll leave. I'm saying unpleasant things; it's best I go."

Violet patted Carissa's hand. "Don't mind her, Prince Yuvan. Carissa can be blunt."

Yuvan, captivated by Violet's smile, let his gaze linger inappropriately. Violet remained oblivious. Carissa, however, noticed and her anger flared. She grabbed Violet's arm, pulling her towards the door, causing Violet to stumble. "Slow down!" Violet protested.

After their departure, Stephanie scoffed, "She's mannerless yet criticizes others."