Chapter 1132

Zoey had hoped Evelyn would adopt a more detached attitude, but her unease persisted. Evelyn, usually sensible, became fiercely biased when her children were involved. Her anger and harsh words were fleeting, quickly replaced by concern. Zoey, however, felt the weight of the situation far more acutely; it was her burden to bear, and she had hoped for Evelyn's support. Evelyn's reaction to Viola's actions, however, made it clear she knew about Oliver's plans for a concubine and expected Zoey to accept it. Evelyn's understanding extended to all matters except those concerning her own children, where her tolerance was boundless.

Despite Evelyn's repeated vows not to interfere with Viola's outbursts, Zoey knew better; those promises were routinely broken. Evelyn always intervened.

"With a mother like you, Viola's truly fortunate," Zoey remarked.

Evelyn squeezed her daughter-in-law's hand, her face softening. "I treat you all the same. If Oliver mistreats you, I won't tolerate it."

Zoey lowered her gaze. "Thank you, Mother."

But could Evelyn truly treat them equally? Her behavior when Oliver had numerous concubines in the capital belied that claim. Back then, she'd only said, "That's between you and your husband. As your mother-in-law, I can't interfere."

Evelyn's expression changed; her face paled. She quickly gathered the quilt she was embroidering, her eyes darting between Zoey and Luna.

"I must say this now. If this matter can't be resolved and the Warren family insists on casting Viola out, she will return to us. If you both find her intolerable, I will buy her a separate house. Our family will still provide for her."

This was Evelyn's independent decision, not a matter for discussion with her daughters-in-law. Zoey and Luna nodded silently. Perhaps it was their shared understanding of women's struggles; despite Viola's actions, as long as Evelyn welcomed her back, they wouldn't oppose it. They understood the true issue wasn't Viola's return, but the situation itself. Even without her return, Viola remained a Prince family member; her origins would always be a factor.

Ultimately, Zoey had to speak with Barrett.

Barrett first learned of the matter from Serena, who reacted with frantic agitation before angrily berating everyone, losing all composure. Since Serena's own disgrace and return to Valor Estate, her relationship with Viola had deteriorated into bitter hatred. Viola's actions provided Serena with ample ammunition for her vengeance.

When Zoey and Jane arrived at Valor Estate, Serena stormed out. She pointed accusingly at Zoey. "What kind of disgraceful woman did the Prince household raise? How dare she act superior to my brother? She's worse than a courtesan! At least they're paid!"

Disgraced and sent home, Serena cared little for her dignity. She aimed to inflict the greatest possible pain. But Zoey remained unmoved.

She sat gracefully, regarding Serena coolly. "I wonder what methods you used to become a concubine of the Marquis of Ironridge, Lady Serena. Paid services or freely given, neither compares to your skill at clinging like a leech."

Though Zoey termed it a skill, it was far less flattering; she refrained from saying so. Instead, she added lightly, "I almost forgot… you're no longer a concubine, so I needn't address you as 'Lady Serena.'"

Serena's face contorted with rage. She stammered before spitting out, "How dare you compare me to her? At least I never betrayed my husband!"

Zoey calmly replied, "Attempting to seduce another's husband isn't much better. Do you really want to compare who's more disgraceful?"