Chapter 275
Salvador's desire to settle the score on Carissa's behalf by arranging for Barrett to marry a woman divorced after only a year seemed pointed. Ironically, Carissa had also been married to Barrett for only a year before their separation. Viola might not agree to this match, but since it was the king's edict, she had little choice.
Evelyn and Viola's visit might have been an attempt to assess Barrett's character. Salvador's actions made Carissa feel she was dragging Viola into this situation, creating an enemy for her rather than settling a score.
Carissa felt it necessary to meet Viola, at least to clear the air and prevent hostility toward the Duke of Northwatch's family. This mattered less for Carissa's sake than for avoiding lingering resentment toward the Duke of Northwatch's household, as Ryan would eventually inherit it.
Rafael noticed her concern and said, “The matriarch of the Earl of Silverstone's family likely visited to inquire about your divorce from Barrett. This matter may have caused a stir, but they're reasonable people. They know rumors aren't always true. As you were personally involved, they'll need to hear from you for a clear understanding.”
Rafael was well-informed about Carissa's household affairs. Each visit began with a check-in with Frederick, who kept him updated. Rafael was treated as the lord of the household.
Frederick knew Carissa was wise, but Northwatch Estate had few capable people. There was no need to hire more staff, and recent hires weren't entirely trustworthy. Thus, many matters required Rafael's intervention and guidance—a reason for his frequent visits.
After speaking with Carissa, he prepared to leave, a stack of documents awaiting his attention. As a new Supreme Court official, the cumbersome paperwork caused daily headaches.
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Moreover, he needed to thoroughly familiarize himself with commercial laws. As Minister of Justice, mastering the era's laws was crucial; failure would undermine his position.
As usual, Carissa saw him off. They had an understanding, but Carissa's thoughts were more complex. Each farewell felt instinctively distant.
Carissa knew she had to manage her feelings. She was to spend her life with Rafael, but she needed to keep her heart under control and prevent herself from truly falling for him.
Though Rafael had promised not to take concubines, such promises weren't always under his control. Even Samuel, a high-status man, had received concubines from superiors. It wasn't unimaginable for Salvador and Helen to arrange more for Rafael to secure his lineage.
For a royal, ensuring the continuation of the bloodline was crucial. Royal relatives would monitor Rafael's offspring. Fewer children than expected might bring trouble for her, the consort.
She had never seen a royal with only one wife; even those with only one were rare, many having more than ten. While she felt gratitude, she couldn't afford to let her heart become too involved. The heart, however, was difficult to control; the mind might say not to fall for him, but the heart didn't always listen.
The next day, Carissa sent an invitation to Silverstone Estate requesting Evelyn and Viola's visit to Northwatch Estate. The invitation was for the following day, but Evelyn and Viola arrived less than two hours after receiving it.
Carissa was dressed casually, but upon hearing of their arrival, she quickly changed with Lulu's help. In a moonlight-white gown, a lake-blue cloak, and a cloud-patterned hairpin, with Margaret's returned bracelet adding understated elegance, she awaited them.
Upon entering the main hall, she saw Lily had seated the guests and was serving refreshments; two maids stood by Evelyn and Viola.
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When Carissa arrived, both mother and daughter stood up and greeted her, “Greetings, Lady Sinclair.” Carissa returned the greeting with a smile. “Good day, Madam Prince, Ms. Prince. Please make yourselves comfortable.”
Chapter 276