Chapter 1149
On the same day, Violet visited the Farrell family's residence, where Alice was ill and Ivy had also been summoned. Violet remained until evening, when news of Viola's predicament spread. Timothy's wife, Opal, had been kept unaware, and they intended to maintain that secrecy. Alas, this proved impossible.
Gossip regarding Viola's actions was rampant. She had been caught in an affair, and rumors of a pregnancy circulated. Though Thomas was no longer her husband, he was deeply affected, as the affair had transpired at the Farrell family's residence.
Some speculated on Thomas's capabilities, suggesting Viola's infidelity stemmed from his inadequacy. Others blamed Viola entirely, deeming her unfaithful and deserving of punishment. Silas, too, faced condemnation for his perceived lack of decency and disregard for family ties, given the Farrell family's kindness in taking him in.
The gossip raged, portraying Silas and Viola as deserving their fate, while painting Thomas as an innocent victim. Barrett, however, was barely mentioned; the family's reputation was already so tarnished that nothing further surprised anyone. No one even acknowledged Barrett's divorce from Viola.
That evening, Violet and Carissa returned to Hell Monarch Estate simultaneously. After briefly discussing the day's events, they exchanged weary glances and sighed in unison. What had once been mere entertainment now impacted those they cared for, causing them considerable anxiety.
That night, Cedric continued his martial arts practice, training harder than ever. Feeling inadequate and limited in his ability to help, he was determined to grow stronger quickly. He had discussed this with Travis, who later shared the conversation with Carissa and Violet.
Carissa noted Zoey's daughter's diligence in her studies at the women's academy. Zoey's children, while not exceptionally outstanding, were sensible, strong-willed, and patient.
After practice, Travis accompanied Cedric back to the estate. Upon arrival, they witnessed Viola's carriage departing Silverstone Estate, followed by several others, presumably to transport her belongings. She was leaving that night.
As Viola prepared to board, she spotted Cedric. Pausing, she expected a greeting. To her surprise, Cedric walked directly into the estate, pointedly ignoring her.
Viola froze, then sharply called out, "Cedric, how can you be so rude? You don't even greet your aunt?"
Cedric's youthful lack of restraint was evident in his contemptuous gaze. He stopped, turned, and spat, "I wish I didn't have an aunt like you."
Viola's face drained of color. "What did you say? Who taught you to speak like that? Was it the people from Hell Monarch Estate?"
Travis swiftly interjected, "Enough with the nonsense."
Cedric's face paled slightly. "I don't want to be harsh, but please go quickly. Mom will get better sooner if you leave."
Viola laughed bitterly, tears streaming down her face. "Even you hate your aunt? Have you all forgotten my kindness? You used to love sitting beside me, listening to my stories…"
"Before… before, you weren't like this," Cedric replied, unwilling to elaborate. Nodding to Travis, he quickly ran inside.
Viola stood in the night wind, the jewelry on her clothes faintly jingling—a sound once cherished, now grating and unbearable. Poppy helped her into the carriage. Viola straightened, determined to avoid appearing foolish to the Hell Monarch Estate inhabitants. She watched as the Hell Monarch Estate representative rode away without a glance.
"Poppy, do you think I was wrong to seek a divorce?" she whispered.
It had all begun with her desire for a divorce. Had she not entertained that thought, she wouldn't have sought Silas. Honestly, she wasn't even sure why she'd sought him out. Sometimes, people didn't know their own desires. She'd simply wanted to see Silas, never considering the consequences, believing Zoey would always protect her.
Poppy gently wiped Viola's tears. "To be honest," she said, "I think the Warren family wasn't so bad. With Madam Rebecca gone, you could've taken charge. You wouldn't have to follow rules or serve your mother-in-law. Even your sister-in-law wouldn't bully you."