Chapter 1315
Rafael suspected Hayden and his son, Nicholas, particularly the latter. Hayden lived a secluded life, interacting with few people. His frequent companions were Carissa and Rafael. Hayden and Chaya typically spent their time at home, eating, drinking, and enjoying themselves. Their lifestyle revolved around pleasure.
Chaya had gained considerable weight since Carissa's last visit; even Hayden appeared to have put on several pounds. Chaya's fuller face was noticeable when she smiled.
After days of unproductive investigation, Carissa, accompanied by Violet, visited. Hayden was delighted, immediately instructing Chaya to prepare sashimi from a carp he'd caught, emphasizing the removal of all blood.
Chaya enthusiastically took the carp to the kitchen, eager to showcase her skills. Violet observed Chaya's increased weight, commenting on their evident enjoyment of fine food. Hayden chuckled, offering Violet a warm invitation to stay at Willowbrook Estate.
Violet playfully accepted the offer, suggesting a permanent move once she tired of the Hell Monarch Estate. Carissa, seizing the moment, offered to send Violet's belongings the following day. Violet feigned offense, but their playful banter continued as Hayden watched with affection.
The sashimi was delicious. Despite their limited preference for raw fish, Carissa and Violet enjoyed it, while Chaya consumed nearly half the serving, followed by Hayden finishing the rest.
After lunch, they strolled around the estate before departing. As they left, Hayden reiterated his invitation to Violet, who readily agreed.
This visit mirrored previous ones, except for Hayden's repeated invitation to Violet. His sincerity remained uncertain. If it were anyone else, Carissa wouldn't have hesitated, but Violet's situation was different.
The Spencer family's involvement in the ongoing conflict remained ambiguous, yet Yuvan's persistent pursuit suggested their resistance wasn't absolute. The family's size increased the probability of members allying with Yuvan, such as Celeste's adoptive father, a distant relative. Eustace's inaction raised questions about his knowledge and complicity.
The situation concerning Hayden, Nicholas, and the Spencer family remained unclear. Later, Violet pondered Hayden's invitation, questioning Carissa's interpretation of his sincerity. They concluded that Hayden either wished to leverage Violet to control the Spencer family or was himself being manipulated, hoping Violet could aid him at Willowbrook Estate.
Going posed the risk of a trap; staying away risked missing a plea for help.