Chapter 1164

Rafael paused, then asked, "Did Isaac agree to Madam Zoey's request?"

"I spoke to him. He said he'd consider it, but hasn't decided," Carissa replied.

"Tell him the full story and let him decide," Rafael advised. "He bought some of Madam Zoey's properties; he clearly wants to help the Earl of Silverstone's family."

Carissa nodded, then shook her head. "Not exactly the family. More those who care for him...and perhaps the children."

The more she learned, the more Carissa suspected Evelyn's involvement in David's plans years ago. Perhaps Evelyn had a change of heart, visiting Isaac only to find him dead in the fire. Guilt-ridden, she blamed David, unwilling to bear the remorse.

That's why, after meeting Isaac, she fabricated a story to seek forgiveness, unconcerned with his well-being. Even after promising compensation, she never checked on him; she only sought to ease her conscience. Since Isaac wasn't raised alongside her, Evelyn lacked the deep attachment she felt for Oliver and Viola.

Carissa nodded. "I'll talk to him."

After hearing Carissa, Isaac scoffed. "Nonsense! Sent to the Southern Frontier for pleasure? He has a child now? Married the woman? What about his wife? Is she a nursemaid?"

"Madam Zoey likely knows; it's your decision," Carissa said.

Isaac declared, "Tell her we begin tomorrow. Transfer everything movable, and don't be discreet. Announce their expenses are unsustainable; they must sell their properties."

This would imply Oliver cared only for his pleasures and concubine, neglecting his family's well-being. His family had long subsidized his spending and could no longer afford it, necessitating the property sales.

Carissa nodded. "I'll send Mabel immediately."

The speed depended on the right people in the right places. With the correct connections, it wouldn't be a problem.

Carissa enlisted Ryan's uncle, Anthony. His influence ensured swift resolution; within days, she held the deeds.

The contracts were properly executed, at market price. Zoey maintained a ledger, recording each transaction, the proceeds settling the family's debts.

Records showed the Earl of Silverstone's family had no cash. To support Oliver's lavish lifestyle, they borrowed from Violet. The debt repaid, Violet returned the promissory note, though it remained in the account books.

The property sales provided funds for immediate household expenses. Zoey wrote a letter in Evelyn's name, explaining the family's financial straits and inability to further support Oliver.

With numerous children, expenses were constant. The approaching cold weather demanded coal and warm clothing.

Unexpectedly, Oliver sent his deputy commander to audit the books.

The deputy commander hastened to the capital. His arrival at Silverstone Estate nearly gave Zoey a heart attack. Not because of the audit, but because Southern Frontier personnel weren't to leave without orders. Oliver secretly sending someone to check the accounts was reckless.

Zoey believed Oliver had lost his mind; the Earl of Silverstone's family was in serious trouble.

The visibly anxious deputy commander hurried through the inspection, departing under cover of secrecy the following morning. Initially believing Caspian, Zoey’s account had left a lingering doubt about his brother's character in Caspian’s mind. The deputy commander's secretive return removed that doubt.

He understood the family's peril, feeling powerless. He could only silently thank Zoey for transferring the properties to Isaac. If things worsened, at least they wouldn't starve.