Chapter 1097

Five carts were needed to transport all the donated items; the flowers and plants traveled separately on a wagon. Almost everyone from Edgeview Estate had helped with the loading.

As they departed, Yuvan appeared. He greeted Violet with his customary charm, radiating masculine appeal and a compassionate demeanor. "I hope these items prove useful to your workshop," he said. "The manor also possesses numerous types of silk thread, ideal for high-quality embroidery. If you wish, you're welcome to inspect them, Ms. Spencer."

Violet's guard rose instantly. "No need," she replied. "Simply have them brought out, and we'll manage from there."

Yuvan readily acquiesced, turning to instruct his servants, "Bring out all the silk threads and load them onto the carts. If there's a shortage of carts, hire more."

The servants promptly returned inside. Meanwhile, Yuvan's gaze lingered on Violet, who wore a soft lavender dress cinched with a simple green ribbon. The fresh and charming outfit enhanced her delicate, youthful appearance.

His expression softened. "Vivi," he said, "you must be thirsty. Shall I have someone bring you coffee and pastries?"

Violet's stomach churned at his familiar tone. She barely suppressed a gag reflex. "No, thank you," she replied politely, maintaining her composure. "I am neither thirsty nor hungry, but I appreciate your kindness, Your Highness."

Yuvan's gaze held hers for a moment before he said, "Very well. I won't insist. Carry on with your work. I have matters to attend to inside, so I shall take my leave."

Violet inclined her head slightly. "Please don't trouble yourself, Your Highness. These are minor tasks."

Violet's mild demeanor was a conscious choice. Since becoming workshop head, she carefully considered her words and actions, striving to avoid negative attention for the already heavily criticized workshop.

Violet, Carissa, and Hannah had thoroughly discussed accepting donations. They agreed to accept anything usable. The workshop was not yet profitable, and with many mouths to feed, they needed all the help they could get. Accepting donations also fostered goodwill and increased awareness of their cause. Naturally, they alone bore the responsibility of receiving and managing these donations; Camila and Soroya would not be burdened with such tasks.

The silk threads arrived in numerous bundles. Violet noticed this and asked Molly, "Why did you buy so much silk thread?"

"In the capital, I had no friends," Molly replied, "so I considered embroidery. Since Lady Ruth's recovery was uncertain, I overbought. But Sabrina and Stephanie showed no interest, and Lady Fiona and I lost our enthusiasm. It was expensive, purchased with my own dowry funds, and I can't simply discard it." Regret clouded her face.

Violet said, "If you don't wish to donate, I can purchase them from you at a reduced price, including the fabrics and silks."

Molly waved her hand. "No need. We're using the Spencer family's funds, and using my dowry feels awkward. Take everything. The workshop will need it all. As long as it's useful, there's no waste."

Violet was surprised by Molly's sudden change of heart, but expressed her sincere thanks. Molly looked at her earnestly, stepped forward, and took Violet's hand.

"Violet, I'm not as bad as you think," Molly said. "I didn't marry Prince Yuvan for social climbing. The Spencer family is prosperous; I don't struggle for food or clothing. I wouldn't have agreed if it felt like too much of a compromise. I truly like him—that's why I married him. Regarding Lady Avis, as mentioned in your letter, I asked him. He treated her well, but she insisted on going to Verdant Monastery."

Violet gave a quiet, skeptical laugh, unconvinced. Arguing was pointless; Molly seemed to be convincing herself.

"Well, I wish you happiness," Violet said, trying to escape the scent of Molly's perfume. Once the loading was complete, she mounted her horse. "I'll go with them."

"You don't need to come. Safe travels," Molly replied.

Only two carts remained—those carrying the silk threads and embroidery frames. Violet had to catch up quickly.