Chapter 1068

Viola's life had been tumultuous lately. Barrett's incompetence and negligence had incurred the king's displeasure. To compound matters, someone had actually visited Skye Embroidery—Amelia's workshop, named after a woman Viola had always despised, even in death. Her sister-in-law was spreading rumors linking Amelia's death to Viola, making Skye Embroidery feel like a constant irritant.

Then there was Serena. Sent home by the Marquis of Ironridge's family, she should have been discreet. Instead, she behaved as if nothing had changed, flaunting her arrogance. Now, unbelievably, she was seeking another husband. Having previously mocked divorced women, including Carissa and Viola, Serena, a discarded concubine, had the audacity to demand Viola, as the elder sister-in-law, arrange her match. Serena's expectations were ludicrous; she still aimed for a prestigious marriage, even as a concubine, despite her unremarkable appearance and tarnished reputation. It was delusional.

Viola had considered leaving the Warren family more than once. When she finally suggested it to Barrett that night, his immediate agreement crushed her. She hadn't anticipated such a swift acquiescence. The Warren family was in ruins, lacking status and wealth, a mere shadow of its former self. No respectable family would consider marrying into it. Conversely, Viola, the third daughter of the Prince family, hailed from a lineage deeply rooted in the capital, a stark contrast to the dilapidated Warren family.

Barrett, having fallen so low, should have clung to her. She could have enlisted her eldest brother's aid to secure Barrett a better future in the capital. Instead, he truly desired a divorce, seemingly devoid of attachment.

Poppy anxiously inquired, "Madam Viola, are you truly going to divorce Deputy Commander Warren?" Overwhelmed by anger and sadness, Viola feigned a faint, unable to articulate her feelings. Later, in bed, she remained awake, burdened by unspoken frustration and helplessness. Responding coldly to Poppy's question, she said, "Should I really waste my life on a man like that?"

Poppy, concerned, mentioned Zoey's potential objection. Viola retorted, "Is that her decision? My mother and brother will support my return to my family." Poppy suggested seeking reconciliation or enlisting Zoey's help, but Viola, recalling her sister-in-law's mockery, found the idea unbearable.

Valor Estate was destitute. Even expenses were slashed. The fine silks and jewels she once enjoyed were now luxuries she could barely afford. Her wardrobe was minimal; in winter, they could only afford two small trays of silver charcoal. It was pathetic.

Was this the best she could hope for? The injustice stung. Barrett had been lucky to have her; what reason did he have to complain? Yet, Viola was realistic. Her marriage to Barrett was her second, and her history with Silas remained unspoken, though tonight's slip of the tongue might ignite rumors. Considering a third marriage, what man would want her? Thomas had ended their connection, and Silas was out of the question.