Chapter 1025 (+25 Bonus)

Edgeview Estate offered little opportunity for concealment. Anything found would likely be insignificant correspondence; anything truly important would have been hidden or destroyed. Accessing the study would be difficult, and creating a disturbance would only exacerbate the situation.

Violet's invitation served a purpose, previously unclear but now revealed to Carissa. Before arriving, Carissa planned to assess the number of martial arts experts at Edgeview Estate and investigate the presence of any suicide soldiers. Their absence would allow Violet's departure.

However, knowing Yuvan's intentions, Carissa wouldn't risk her friend's safety. Yuvan's lecherous gaze toward Violet was revolting; the thought made Carissa nauseous.

Maids entered, arranging pastries. Carissa abruptly rose and approached a maid carrying pound cake. The maid remained motionless.

Fiona watched suspiciously, but Carissa simply pointed, saying, "These pound cakes are Prince Rafael's favorite. Please take them to the main hall."

The maid replied softly, "Yes, Your Grace," curtseying and departing with measured steps.

Fiona chuckled. "Lady Carissa and Prince Rafael are truly affectionate, aren't they? Even after a disagreement, she remembers His Highness's preference for pound cake."

Carissa returned to her seat, forcing a smile while maintaining an air of indifference. She turned away, resting her arms on the railing and observing passersby.

Molly chuckled. "Violet, Fiona enjoys this—trying to ingratiate herself despite being ignored."

Fiona glared at Molly. This fool only cared about power and favor. As mere guests in the capital, what power remained to contest? As a princess consort, Molly should prioritize more significant matters. Her preoccupation with trivialities disqualified her from any meaningful role.

Yet, Fiona understood Violet's sense of justice and tendency to defend the weak. Therefore, Fiona remained silent, her eyes slightly reddened with irritation.

Chapter 1025 (+25 Bonus)

Violet frowned. "Molly, you're a princess consort. You shouldn't speak so harshly."

Molly scoffed. "What a fool! You don't even realize you're being used."

Violet almost laughed. Did Molly believe people were born with intellect but devoid of common sense?

Ignoring Molly, Violet engaged Fiona in conversation about Valken's customs and culture. Fiona's responses remained guarded.

Carissa, claiming weariness, suggested a walk. They toured the garden, courtyard, back garden, and even the storage building—avoiding the study, a place too sensitive for casual visitors. They merely passed the flower-adorned archway.

Fiona wasn't concerned about their inspection. If they harbored ulterior motives, a thorough search would prove beneficial. Let them see the royal estate held no secrets.

Carissa, tired of walking, declared, "I'm hungry. Let's eat."

Stephanie and Sabrina were absent during dinner. Rafael ate sparingly, declining wine offered by Wayne.

Yuvan taunted, "Why aren't you drinking? Afraid your uncle might poison you?"

Rafael, playing the dutiful nephew, replied, "You wouldn't harm me, Uncle Yuvan. Such an act now would ruin years of planning. I simply dislike this rough wine. I prefer ice wine, and these dishes aren't to my taste."

Yuvan's lips twitched. This nephew lacked courtesy.

The meal was sweetened for Violet's preference, but the planned royal jelly soup proved unnecessary.

Yuvan's gaze locked on Violet, his intent unwavering: he would possess her, regardless of the cost.

After dinner, he said, "Your cousin has no family here. Please visit often to keep her company, Ms. Spencer."

Chapter 1025 (+25 Bonus)

Molly immediately linked arms with Violet. "Yes, let's go for walks, have coffee. I've explored so little of the capital."

Violet raised an eyebrow. "No family? Aren't you all her family?"

Yuvan paused, surprised, then chuckled. Bowing, he said teasingly, "My mistake. Forgive me, my dear."

Violet suppressed the urge to slap him, fighting a shudder. Forcing a smile, she said coldly, "I'll visit when I have time."

Travis, understanding the situation, grabbed Violet's wrist. "Let's go!" His outrage was palpable. How dare this old fox attempt such manipulation!