Chapter 615

"Huh?" "What?"

In the main hall, Rafael and Carissa were startled by Mildred, Trevor's wife. Their exchanged glances betrayed their confusion; neither knew how to respond.

Mildred sighed, her eyes crinkling. "This matter must be entrusted to you, Prince Rafael, Lady Carissa."

Carissa looked troubled. "But shouldn't matchmaking be handled by a professional? Or at least a government-appointed matchmaker, or someone of high moral standing? I'm quite young and can't bear this responsibility."

Mildred sighed again. "You may laugh, but my granddaughter is well-behaved and sensible—except regarding her marriage. I've secretly sought suitable matches, but she's rejected them all. She insists on marrying only this man. We've pleaded with her, but she refuses to listen, even sulking. She won't speak to her mother.

"Seeing her stubbornness, we assumed he was decent. If she's happy, that's what matters. But when we sent a matchmaker, he refused, claiming he didn't want to hinder her. Reluctantly, we sought your help. You returned from the Southern Frontier together, and he respects you. We thought you might persuade him."

Trevor added, "Whether this marriage happens isn't the main concern. I want to understand why he rejects our granddaughter. He claims he fears hindering her future, but I believe that's an excuse. Wouldn't marrying anyone else also be a delay? Don't you agree, Your Highness, Your Grace?"

Carissa hesitated. She knew the reason: Thomas wasn't genuinely interested in marriage; he was simply trying to help Viola move on. However, she couldn't tell Trevor that.

Carissa remembered Rosalind from Eleanor's birthday banquet, where she'd authenticated Kyle's orchid painting. Rosalind, known throughout the kingdom as the most talented young woman, would have countless suitors. Yet, she desired Thomas, a divorced man. Marrying him would make her a second wife. If her feelings were impulsive, it would be disastrous for both of them.

Chapter 615 +25 BONUS

Leona's impulsive marriage proposal to Samuel had ended poorly. Of course, Samuel was nothing like Thomas. Thomas, a hero, might seem perfect, but everyday life differs from heroism. Rosalind might be idealizing him. Discovering his flaws after marriage could cause trouble. "We need an answer to help that foolish girl move on," Mildred pleaded hopefully.

Rafael asked, "Mr. Young, what do you think? If Thomas agrees, will you consent?"

Trevor shrugged. "What good would disagreeing do? Rosalind is stubborn. She won't listen to anyone. She's sheltered, knowing the world only through books. Fortunately, Thomas is a good man, better than many young nobles. If it can be arranged, we wouldn't oppose it."

"But this isn't his first marriage," Rafael insisted.

Trevor looked surprised. "With respect, Your Highness, you're not Lady Carissa's first husband either. As a young man, you shouldn't be so rigid."

Rafael was momentarily speechless, unable to argue.