Chapter 1040

Rafael spoke slowly, his tone deliberate. “Having leverage in someone else’s hands truly leaves you at their mercy. I didn’t make your situation public initially because a good piece of leverage should be used wisely. Now, the time has come. No more talking. If the articles aren’t in Jacob’s hands within two days, you’ll write one yourself to clear your name.”

It was a blatant threat.

Malcolm’s chest heaved with frustration, but he could only glare in silence.

Rafael remained composed, as if he hadn’t just delivered a bombshell. He sipped his fine coffee, showing no haste. He was a man of high standards, and this coffee was excellent. Malcolm’s household clearly had taste, though they also flaunted their moral superiority.

Such self-righteous people were often the easiest to handle, especially someone like Malcolm, so concerned with his reputation yet so careless about preserving his dignity.

After a moment, Carissa and Marjorie returned. Rafael stood, his eyes still fixed on the pale-faced Malcolm.

“I have important matters to attend to today, so I’ll take my leave. I hope I won’t need to return.”

Malcolm’s face was too dark to allow even a polite smile. He rose stiffly and managed, “Your Highness, Your Grace, please travel safely.”

In contrast, Marjorie’s farewell was sincere. She turned to Carissa with a warm smile. “Please do visit whenever you can, Your Grace. I enjoy our conversations so much.”

“I will,” Carissa replied, smiling and waving.

The carriage moved slowly through the bustling capital streets, the city’s lively energy evident in the crowded roads.

Taking a rare break from their busy lives, the couple shared a quiet understanding as they exited the carriage. They sent Jacob and Lulu back while they wandered the streets for a while.

Strolling through the market was out of the question. Their appearance was too striking—they would stand out too much.

So, they went to the Glimmering Tower, booked a private room, and ordered exquisite dishes. They also requested a bottle of ice wine. As it was poured, its fragrance filled the air.

Chapter 1040

Rafael’s eyes lit up.

“It’s been so long since I’ve had a good drink.”

+25 BONUS

Carissa lifted her glass, clinking it gently against his, a teasing smile on her lips. “Drink as much as you want today. If you get drunk, I’ll carry you back.”

Rafael grinned, taking a sip before setting his glass down. He gently traced her cheek, his gaze soft with unspoken affection.

“If I get drunk, I’ll row us out onto the lake in a boat. We can lie back and watch the stars. Wouldn’t that be wonderful?”

His gentle voice soothed her, making her feel lightheaded. She almost felt drunk already.

She smiled sweetly. “Alright!”

“Darling,” he said, gazing at her intently.

Carissa lifted her head, slightly unfamiliar with the term. Yet, it sounded so intimate that her cheeks flushed.

“Yes?”

“At the time of our marriage, it must have felt like I was pushing you into it. Did you feel wronged?” Rafael asked, his eyes filled with regret.

Their marriage was officially arranged by Salvador, a union meant to curtail his brother’s military authority. But in reality, it was what the prince had wanted.

At that time, Carissa had no real choice—to marry Rafael or become a palace concubine.

“Did you feel wronged, marrying me?” Carissa countered playfully.

Rafael froze. “How could I feel wronged? You know my heart. I got what I wanted.”

Warmth spread across Carissa’s eyes. “Mom always hoped I’d marry a good man. I think she’d be content now.”

The prince raised an eyebrow. “Your mother would be content, but what about you?”

“Me?” Carissa refilled his wine, smiling. “I’ve gotten a great deal. How could I not be happy?”

Rafael’s face glowed. “Do you have feelings for me?”

Carissa put down the wine bottle, thinking for a moment.

Just as Rafael thought she would answer, she asked, “Haven’t you already asked me that question?”

Chapter 1040

His heart skipped a beat as he blurted, “Carissa, I love you.”

“You’ve already said that too.”

She rested her chin in her hand, staring at him mischievously.

Rafael inhaled sharply, leaning closer. Their eyes locked, and she felt her pulse quicken, her face warming.

“You’ll say it eventually, but no rush. I’ll spend a lifetime waiting for you to say you love me.”

Carissa clutched her sleeve, her heart swelling with emotion and a strange longing. However, she also feared losing him.

He already had a permanent place in her heart. She cared deeply for him, yet she dared not care too much. She wished they could stay together forever.

But the world was cruel. Separations would come, in life and in death, unexpectedly.

Tears welled in her eyes, though a smile lingered on her lips. “Alright.”

He leaned in and gently kissed her lip.

“I promise, we’ll always be together,” he said, his voice low and reassuring.

As a couple united in heart, he understood her every thought.

Carissa lifted her gaze, her lashes brushing against his eyes. Tears shimmered, lingering but refusing to fall.