Chapter 299

With a tearful expression, Serena bowed deeply to thank Helen. She then cast a desperate look toward Jessica.

Jessica’s face darkened. "What foolish woman is this?" she thought. "She has directly embarrassed me!"

The onlookers suppressed their laughter. Helen was easily flattered—a few compliments could make her open her heart. It was easy to please her or deceive her out of money, but she took great pride in her son. Anyone who aimed for Rafael was crossing an intolerable line.

Jessica seethed with anger but had no choice but to maintain a stiff, silent expression. However, Eleanor simply smiled and took a slow sip of her tea.

She said, “It was merely a jest. Why would anyone take it seriously? Rafael’s princess consort hasn’t even married into the family yet, so what talk of a second wife? Jessica, you were too kind-hearted. That girl from the Warren family shed a few tears, and you pitied her, so you spoke up for her before Helen. And Helen, how can you make decisions for Rafael? Forget about a second wife—even taking a concubine requires his consent. Without it, nothing can be done.”

The few concubines present chuckled quietly, their eyes filled with scorn as they looked at Helen. Helen was furious but at a loss for words, especially when faced with Eleanor, who was speaking the truth. She had no way to counter her.

As Helen’s face reddened, Eleanor took another sip of her tea and continued casually, “I’ve never been one to interfere in other people’s family matters, but Rafael is my nephew. After his great service to the country, why should he be forced to marry Carissa when there are so many noble young women in the capital? If you had invited Carissa today, I wouldn’t have come. A woman like her, who can’t even tolerate a husband taking a concubine, is too narrow-minded for my taste.”

Eleanor lifted her gaze to scan the other noble ladies present. “Remember my words. Some people are worth associating with, while others should be avoided to prevent catching their petty airs and ending up with a reputation for jealousy.”

Eleanor was openly exposing her discord with Carissa. Many of the noble ladies present had close ties with Eleanor. This was due to her previous hospitality, as she often hosted gatherings and occasionally provided them with benefits. Not to mention, her connections through her makeup shop and jewelry store ensured that the latest fashions were always available to them first. Over time, these relationships had naturally grown strong. Furthermore, many of the alliances and marriages within the official families were orchestrated by Eleanor, which only increased her circle of supporters.

Eleanor’s gaze turned cold as she seized the opportunity, knowing that Carissa’s absence was a chance to further slander her.

Chapter 290

She continued, “This time, Helen didn’t invite her. Rafael should have, but he didn’t. Clearly, the future princess consort of the Hell Monarch is not as well-regarded as one might expect. There might be more to this marriage than meets the eye.”

Jessica laughed lightly. “What other secrets could there be? Isn’t it just like Barrett and Aurora? I’m sure she gave herself to him on the battlefield, then naturally compelled Rafael to marry her.”

This statement shocked everyone.

“Oh my, could that really be the case?” “It’s hard to say. Otherwise, why would the Hell Monarch marry her?” “That makes sense. With so many noble ladies available, why choose someone…with such a dubious background?”

Whispers and malicious speculations spread through the room. Heather lowered her head and remained silent.

Margaret interjected sternly, “When making statements, provide evidence. If you have no proof and only speculate, it is best not to voice such opinions. It will lead to misunderstandings and harm General Sinclair’s reputation.”

Margaret, being Jessica’s mother-in-law, carried significant weight in her rebuke. This caused the others to hush and stop their discussions.

Jessica didn’t dare offend her mother-in-law, so she glanced at Eleanor.

Eleanor set her teacup down with a dismissive smile. “Well, what’s true will not change, and what’s false can’t be made true.”