Chapter 1187

Back at the Quinton family residence, Malcolm summoned the members of the fourth branch and unleashed his fury.

"Malcolm, we were only following Her Majesty's wishes," Vera protested, looking aggrieved. "I had planned to propose the Marquis of Glandale's third son for Jocelyn's marriage, but Her Majesty insisted on military support. She revealed Kylie's near-successful arrangement of Jocelyn's marriage to Thomas, thwarted only by Victoria. The Farrell family is too proud," she added, her voice sharper. "Do they think a Quinton daughter isn't worthy of their son? They're looking down on us!"

"Why should the Farrell family think highly of the Quinton family?" Malcolm retorted sharply. "Have we ever considered their stature?"

Malcolm realized his family had begun to expect universal respect and deference, believing themselves untouchable. Fear settled upon him. The Quinton family's power, fueled by others' support, had inflated their own perception of themselves.

Vera fell silent, her thoughts swirling before she said, "But we are the Quinton family."

Shaken, Malcolm called a family meeting. He addressed them sternly, instructing them to be mindful of their actions and words. "We must avoid arrogance and presumptuousness," he commanded. "Be humble, be discreet, and never associate with those who might bring scandal upon us. We cannot afford the appearance of factionalism or private alliances for personal gain."

Malcolm's affair was discussed only among the women. The men acknowledged its impropriety, yet their understanding stemmed from a different perspective—a tacit acceptance of male indiscretions. Consequently, the family seemed likely to heed his words.

Malcolm felt particularly uneasy. Previously, he'd seen no need to strategize for Connor, assuming his future as king was secure. However, Connor's mediocrity, coupled with flaws in character and morals, had become increasingly apparent. Salvador's awareness of this meant any scheming on Connor's behalf would only arouse suspicion.

The prince's youth offered an opportunity for guidance. For now, discretion, patience, and a focus on his education seemed the wisest course.

However, Kylie was displeased by Malcolm's caution. She believed the time for forging connections, particularly military ones, had arrived, advocating for stronger ties with Minister of Defense Davis. She urged her father to consider Connor's future more seriously.

Malcolm calmly replied, emphasizing Connor's evident mediocrity and the paramount importance of his education, cautioning against anything that might displease Salvador.

Kylie, acutely aware of her son's limitations, felt a sense of urgency. Connor lacked the intellect or military prowess to secure his position; only the support of older officials could ensure his place. She questioned Malcolm's lack of urgency, wondering why the Quinton family failed to share her apprehension. Connor's removal as crown prince, she feared, would bring the family's downfall. She deemed her father short-sighted, focused solely on present power, neglecting future consequences.

Lydia entered, quietly reporting, "Your Majesty, Lady Sylvia and Lady Grace discussed Ms. Jocelyn's expulsion from the academy. Palace gossip claims the prestigious Quinton family produced a daughter unworthy of the academy."

Kylie's eyes narrowed. "Lady Sylvia grows bolder each day. Jocelyn left voluntarily; their claim of expulsion is fabrication."

Lydia hesitated. "Regardless of palace gossip, noble families are starting to discuss this. Ms. Jocelyn's marriage prospects could be ruined."

"Then let her be," Kylie snapped. "If she can't marry General Farrell, I don't care. My relatives offer no help; focused on their own households, they're unwilling to support Connor."

Lydia knew Kylie referred to Adelaide, Kendrick's princess consort. Adelaide, formerly a frequent visitor, now rarely came, preoccupied with securing a legitimate heir. Despite Kylie's repeated summons, Adelaide consistently avoided her, unwilling to influence Kendrick on Kylie's behalf with Salvador.