Chapter 1173

Randall began his new position with considerable apprehension. Initially, he feared someone would question him about his father. However, several days passed without a word from Rafael or regarding Yuvan, and his anxiety subsided.

Matthew, Rafael's deputy, spoke to Randall on several occasions. Matthew's kindness and willingness to offer guidance were greatly appreciated by Randall. He wasn't hesitant to seek Matthew's help when unsure, even if it meant bypassing his immediate superior. Having never held a proper office before, Randall was determined to excel. The warden's responsibilities were numerous and demanding, requiring him to manage the guards under his command.

Rafael had instructed Matthew not to press Randall for answers. He needed time to master his duties and experience success before deciding his course of action, and thus, where his loyalties truly lay.

Since Midwinter's Dawn, matchmakers had flocked to the Farrell family residence. Alice eagerly sought a suitable wife for Thomas; he needed not only an heir but also a companion to share life's journey. Since her son's near-death experience, her focus shifted from grandchildren to ensuring his peaceful and stable future. This superseded all other considerations.

After Viola's incident, Alice prioritized a prospective daughter-in-law's character. She had previously considered a match with the daughter of a sixth-ranked official, a virtuous and talented young woman, but that possibility dissolved following Viola and Silas's scandal. Now, more families expressed interest. Alice planned to thoroughly investigate each candidate.

Surprisingly, the Quinton family also submitted a proposal. Jocelyn Quinton, the youngest daughter of Howard Quinton, head of the family's fourth branch, had recently turned fifteen. Alice immediately dismissed her as too young; her other candidates were all over eighteen.

Chapter 1173

While uncommon, eighteen-year-old engagements occurred. Sometimes, family mourning delayed the marriage; other times, a previous engagement had been broken. In either case, a thorough investigation was crucial. Some women were seeking second marriages; Alice wasn't opposed, provided the match was suitable. However, none had impressed her as a proper match for Thomas.

Regarding the Quintons, she politely declined, claiming the Farrell family was unworthy and Jocelyn too young; Thomas wouldn't be a suitable husband. To her surprise, following her refusal, Kylle summoned her to the palace.

Alice was suspicious; how did the queen learn of her decision? Such a sudden summons was unusual. The rejection occurred the previous evening; the royal edict arrived in the early hours of the following day. It felt as though someone deliberately informed Kylle. Were the Quintons acting on the queen's instructions?

Uneasy, Alice immediately sent for Opal, Timothy's wife.

"The queen summoned me, and I fear it concerns Thomas and Miss Quinton. Something's amiss. You must quickly contact Lady Carissa and Violet. I fear the queen will issue an edict forcing their marriage."

Opal was alarmed. "Buy time, Aunt Alice. Tell the chamberlain you need to bathe and change before entering the palace. I'll slip out and find Lady Carissa."

"I'll delay as long as possible. Hurry," Alice replied.

The chamberlain, Ellis Latham, was outside enjoying coffee. Lincoln, the Farrell family steward, retrieved a banknote from the treasury, discreetly slipped it to Ellis, and smiled. "Mr. Latham, please wait. Our mistress needs time. I'll bring you pastries."

Ellis pocketed the banknote, a pleased smile spreading across his face. "Tell Mrs. Farrell not to worry. I'll relax. It's rare I have a moment like this."

Lincoln poured another cup. "Good fortune, Mr. Latham! We received excellent coffee beans. You must have more."

"Is that so?" Ellis sipped, enjoying the flavour. "Excellent. Who knows when I'll drink this again?"

Lincoln, understanding the hint, ordered more beans for Ellis. Seeing Ellis's good mood, he asked, "Why did Her Majesty summon our mistress? Please enlighten me, so she doesn't offend the queen."