Chapter 424

Carissa sighed in relief. She had worried that mentioning her desire to hit Viola might provoke a fight between Leah and Alana if they encountered unpleasantness at Gracehold Estate. She believed the two young women would understand the limits.

Carissa found Viola's behavior baffling. To be honest, she hadn't wronged Viola much. So why the intense hatred? She realized, after some thought, it was probably because Rebecca had spoken ill of her to Viola. Rebecca seemed to harbor a deep resentment toward her marriage into the royal family. Yet, Viola had once been a wife in the Farrell family. With such an open-minded and far-sighted man as her late husband, Thomas, why had she learned nothing from him?

Upon arriving at Gracehold Estate, Abigail hurried to welcome them into the sitting room. She felt anxious, especially since Samuel had caused a scene at Hell Monarch Estate a few days ago. She worried someone from Rafael's household might come to seek retribution.

After waiting several days without a visit, she was alarmed to learn that the Hell Monarch's princess consort had arrived. Her heart leaped into her throat. Her concern stemmed from rumors that the Oversight Department was preparing to bring charges against Samuel, despite his seemingly bright career. If people from Rafael's household also came demanding justice, the Oversight Department might use this as an opportunity to flood the court with accusations against Samuel.

The Oversight Department was known for acting quickly on such matters. But this time, despite several days of deliberation, they hadn't yet submitted a formal complaint. The delay made Abigail increasingly anxious.

Feeling uneasy, Abigail began with an apology: "A few days ago, my son acted thoughtlessly and caused a disturbance at the royal residence. I apologize on his behalf. Please don't take his behavior to heart."

This time, Carissa's attitude was less forgiving.

"Your son is well-educated and comes from a noble family. He even achieved the honor of being a top scholar through the national examination. However, his youth and success have led to arrogance and a dismissive attitude toward others, which will surely lead to trouble and ruin his future."

Abigail's expression stiffened. "Yes, Your Grace. Your words are very true."

"Honest advice is often unpleasant to hear," Carissa said, recognizing Abigail might not appreciate her words. "I will not say much more, but the fact that your son dared to create a scene at Hell Monarch Estate shows he never held the duchess in high regard. Now that she is pregnant with your family's heir, I hope you will pay her more attention and care."

"Of course," Abigail hurriedly replied.

"Today, I have brought two people knowledgeable about medicine. They will be responsible for Leona's diet and herbal remedies from now on. Once Leona safely gives birth, I will take them away. They will not receive a monthly stipend from your household—I will cover their expenses myself. This is my small gesture of goodwill toward my cousin. I trust you will not refuse."

Abigail understood that Carissa genuinely cared for Leona's well-being. If Carissa's people were knowledgeable about medicine, they could help avoid any underhanded tricks.

Now that her son had achieved success, there were many things she, as his mother, could not say. Samuel's arrogance had grown, and there was no reasoning with him. Having people sent by Carissa to look after Leona was indeed a good thing.

"In that case, you shouldn't have to cover their monthly stipend, Your Grace. Since they are serving Leona, it is only right that our family bear the expense," Abigail said.

Carissa shook her head. "There is no need for that. They're not servants, but were specifically hired by me. Naturally, I will provide their salaries."

The statement was meant to inform Abigail not to treat them as mere servants. By not receiving a stipend from the Earl of Gracehold's family, Leah and Alana wouldn't be subject to their household's arrangements.

Abigail understood the underlying message and said, "Then, we shall proceed as you have instructed, Your Grace. I am most grateful."

After further discussion, Carissa still hadn't seen Leona, so she asked, "Why hasn't Leona come out yet?"

Abigail quickly ordered, "Check on Leona again. Tell her to hurry."

"No need for that. She's pregnant, so let her avoid unnecessary movement. Please lead me to see her," Carissa said.

Knowing the two cousins likely had private matters to discuss, Abigail instructed a maid to guide them to Leona.