Chapter 1046

Carissa and Violet escorted Giles to Ironridge Estate. Following Emma's passing, Margaret's health had deteriorated. She remained bedridden after the funeral, unable to rise. When Carissa arrived, Margaret had just taken her medicine and was lying propped up in bed. Serena stood by, attending to her. Though Serena didn't look up, a storm of emotions stirred within her. Carissa's arrival, announcing her intention to address Jessica's issue and having brought Giles, ignited those emotions. Serena harbored a deep hatred for Carissa, unforgiving of past events. However, she also feared Carissa's power; taking down a lowly concubine would be effortless for someone in Carissa's position.

Margaret had previously rejected Carissa's invitation, but Carissa's post-funeral visit, prompted by Jessica's situation and its impact on Skye Embroidery, necessitated immediate action. As Carissa entered, Margaret, using a handkerchief provided by Serena, wiped medicine from her mouth.

"You've come because of Jessica, haven't you? I'm so sorry to trouble you. Just drive Jessica out; I'll send someone to care for her at the estate," she said weakly.

Margaret had lost significant weight. Her eye sockets were sunken, her skin pale with yellowish patches, and dark circles accentuated her worn appearance. Her usual serene dignity was gone.

"Are you feeling any better?" Carissa asked gently.

Margaret forced a weak smile. "Better… yes, much better. You're very thoughtful, Your Grace."

Serena, standing aside, squeezed her handkerchief. "The physician said Madam Margaret must not be agitated, or her condition will worsen. Please finish your visit and leave."

Carissa ignored Serena, turning to Giles. "Do you want to explain things to Madam Margaret yourself, or should I speak for you?"

Giles dropped to his knees, sobbing Margaret's name.

Suddenly, Serena raised her eyes, her gaze sharp and cold. "Giles, think carefully. Don't let anyone provoke you into uttering lies that would tarnish the late Lady Emma's good deeds toward your family."

Margaret's eyes widened. "What's going on?" Her cold, piercing glance sent a chill down Serena's spine.

"I… I was worried Giles might be persuaded by Carissa to do something he shouldn't," Serena stammered.

"It's not your place to speak," Margaret rebuked her coldly.

Serena gritted her teeth, seething with anger. After her dedicated care, she received no sympathy.

Margaret, never having doubted Emma, was speechless after Giles recounted Emma's scheme. After a long pause, she whispered, "Why?" Understanding dawned, and grief contorted her face.

Serena dropped to her knees, her voice full of misery. "Madam Margaret, I was coerced by Lady Emma! Please, have mercy and see the truth!"

Margaret, maintaining composure, turned to Carissa. "Your Grace, I will ensure the workshop receives a proper explanation and end the rumors. Please, rest assured."

Carissa nodded slightly. "Please take care of yourself, Madam Margaret. Your health is paramount. Farewell."

Margaret's eyes reddened. "Thank you, Your Grace."

As Carissa and Violet left the courtyard, they heard Serena's frantic cries. "Madam Margaret, please have mercy! It was all Lady Emma's doing—I didn't dare defy her! Please don't cast me out!"

Footsteps followed. Serena's voice dripped with venom. "Carissa, did my family desecrate your family's grave? Why else would you be so bent on ruining us?"

Carissa didn't look back. "Where's that stray dog coming from, barking so loudly?"

Violet snorted. "She really is a stray. She didn't even return after her mother died. That's cutting ties, isn't it?"

Serena seethed. "Carissa Sinclair!"

They ignored her, striding away.