Chapter 273

+25 BONUS

Two days later, an invitation arrived. The Earl of Silverstone's matriarch, Evelyn Turner, was coming to visit the next day with Viola.

Lily reported this, saying, "Perhaps we should avoid seeing them. We don't know what they want. If they're here to inquire about the Warren family, they should have done so long ago, not after the wedding has been arranged and the bridal gown is in preparation."

Carissa agreed that it might be best not to meet them and asked, "How was the invitation worded?"

Lily replied, "It says they're coming to congratulate us on our young lord's return, but that's just an excuse. Lord Ryan has been back for a while now. Why didn't they visit sooner?"

Carissa considered this and said, "You should respond by saying that Ryan is still recovering from his injuries and is not in a condition to receive guests. Once he has fully recovered, I will take him to visit them."

Lily agreed and delivered the message.

Carissa found it inappropriate to meet them. It was clear they were interested in the Warren family, a matter she had no say in. Avoiding the visit was best.

After the response was sent, two more days passed, and the first snowfall of winter began. The snow was light, just enough to cover the yard with a thin layer of white frost before stopping.

Carissa continued to take Ryan to the orchid garden. The orchids were blooming, their delicate pink and deep purple petals dusted with frost, creating a beautiful scene.

Ryan was very happy. Although his cheeks were flushed red from the cold, his face was full of joyful smiles.

He placed his hand on his throat and tried to speak to Carissa. Despite several attempts, he couldn't make any sound. His small face grew redder with frustration.

Carissa knelt beside him and said gently, "It's alright. Take your time. There's no need to rush."

Chapter 273

+25 BONUS

Ryan nodded, though his eyes showed some disappointment. He had been able to make sounds before, but not for the past few days, which made him anxious.

However, his disappointed expression quickly transformed into a smile. His cold little hands patted his aunt's cheek gently. He smiled widely and shook his head vigorously, trying to show her that he didn't mind and wasn't upset.

Carissa took his hands and said, "Sebastian said you will get better. The medicine you've been taking recently is quite strong and has driven the toxins into the veins of your neck. Once you've coughed up some black blood, you'll be able to speak again. There's no need to rush, okay?"

Ryan nodded emphatically, though he was truly anxious. After all, December 24th was the day his aunt was to marry the prince. He wanted to get better and say many blessings to his aunt!

Furthermore, there would surely be many guests that day. He didn't want to be laughed at for being mute. Even if people didn't mock him openly, they might still do so in their hearts.

After enjoying the orchids for a while, they headed back just in time for Rowan to arrive for a bandage change.

Carissa asked, "Rowan, how is Ryan's leg? Is it healing properly now?"

"Yes, the bone has healed well. It won't grow crooked. Once it's completely healed, he'll be able to walk smoothly. Just give it a bit more time. There's no need to rush," Rowan replied as he applied a medicinal poultice and wrapped it with bandages. The splint was no longer necessary.

"Thank you for your hard work," Carissa said.

Rowan laughed. "Please don't be so polite, my lady. If you're too polite, we might feel embarrassed to charge for our services."

Carissa chuckled softly. "That won't do. Sebastian's medicine is expensive, and he has come personally several times. You, too, have been coming almost every other day. I would feel uncomfortable if we don't pay for the consultation and medicine."

After finishing the bandaging, Rowan stood up and looked at Carissa. "I was just joking. My mentor said that payment is necessary, but we only charge one silver coin. Any more is not needed. My mentor was so pleased to see Lord Ryan recovering that he hasn't slept for three days and nights."

Chapter 273

+25 BONUS

Carissa, naturally, couldn't give just one silver coin. Sebastian's dedication and care deeply moved her.