Chapter 296

+25 BONUS

Carissa knew Helen hadn't invited her to the tea party, but she was unsure exactly when Helen planned to host it. She looked at Kyle. “When did you arrive in the capital? This can’t be a coincidence, can it?”

Kyle smiled. “I’ve been here for a few days, just strolling around the city to enjoy some peace and quiet. I didn’t expect to hear your chatter so soon.”

“What? You arrived in the capital and didn’t come to see me immediately? That’s really too much!”

“Well, go ahead and cry about it,” Kyle said, sitting down leisurely with his coffee.

After sipping half a cup, he looked up and saw Carissa’s eyes had reddened. He couldn’t help but sigh.

“You never tell us about your problems, so of course I had to come and check on you myself. I needed to see if you were doing well. Even if you don’t need our help, at least I should be aware of the situation.”

“Kyle, I’m doing very well now,” Carissa said, sitting beside him, still trying to act spoiled as she used to. Though she had managed to play the part of a pampered girl when they first met, she could no longer maintain the facade.

“Ryan has been found, so I have family now, and I’m about to get married. The Hell Monarch treats me quite well.”

“Your guild junior wouldn’t dare neglect you,” Kyle said authoritatively. “He’s Sage Everett’s apprentice, but he only comes to the guild a month each year and spends the time in isolation training. Sage Everett rarely allows him out, so you probably haven’t seen him before.”

“I didn’t even know he was our guild junior. It feels like a misunderstanding—why didn’t I know we were practically family?” Carissa said with a bright smile. It seemed she didn’t even realize how much she enjoyed talking about Rafael.

“Are you trying to show off in front of him now? Let me tell you, Sage Everett values this apprentice very much. You mustn’t bully him. Besides, the most skilled fighter in the Pathfinders Guild is him, not you. You have a talent for martial arts, but you’re lazy. He, on the other hand, is both talented and hardworking. Even if he only trains for a month each year, he trains better than you.”

Carissa wasn’t disheartened—in fact, she was quite pleased. “I know he’s impressive, and I’m not envious. I feel honored.”

“Your shamelessness hasn’t changed.” Kyle glanced at her, then turned to Frederick, who was excitedly standing at the door. “You’re the steward of Northwatch Estate, aren’t you? Please go outside and announce that I will be displaying my paintings at Northwatch Estate the day after tomorrow. There’s no need to specifically invite anyone—just spread the word.”

“Alright, I’ll get on it!” Frederick hurriedly agreed. “I’ll go and spread the word. Oh, and we need to have our refreshments prepared in advance.”

“There’s no need to prepare any snacks. A cup of plain coffee will be enough,” Kyle said.

“You’re right! With a renowned artist like you, Mr. Spencer, snacks would only be superfluous.” Frederick scampered off, eager to get started.

Upon hearing that Kyle had arrived, the people in the residence gathered at the door to peek. Only Lulu had the courage to come in and greet him. “Greetings, Mr. Kyle!”

Although Lulu wasn’t an apprentice of the Pathfinders Guild, she was familiar with the guild’s customs and had always addressed people as Carissa did. After all, in the guild, the only distinction was based on age or seniority, not rank or status. In the Pathfinders Guild, Lulu was never treated like a mere maid.

“You’ve grown taller and look even better now, Lulu,” Kyle said, assessing Lulu with a thoughtful expression. He was relieved that she was still there and would be accompanying them.

Lulu blushed slightly. “Thank you for your kind words, Mr. Kyle.”

Kyle sipped his coffee, casting a brief glance at Carissa. He let out a barely audible sigh. Back in Meadow Ridge, even the smallest grievance made her want everyone in the Pathfinders Guild and even all of Meadow Ridge to know, seeking comfort from everyone. But when something truly serious happened, she kept it all to herself, swallowing her pain. As her eldest guild senior, how could he not feel heartache? Everyone in the guild felt for Carissa but was hesitant to approach. She chose to endure her struggles alone, so who would dare to trouble her further?

Chapter 206 (Note: This chapter heading seems out of place; it's likely a mistake)