Chapter 623

Molly sent notice to Silverstone Estate that she would be visiting the next day. Recalling Carissa’s words, Zoey’s expression turned grave. After a moment, she instructed Jane, “Prepare gifts. I need to go to Hell Monarch Estate.”

“Madam Zoey, shouldn’t we send a formal invitation first?” Jane asked. “Going without one might seem rude.”

“No need. When I returned with Viola, I told the Princess Consort I would apologize in person. This visit won't be disrespectful.”

With visitors from Yuvan’s family arriving tomorrow, there was no time to wait for an invitation.

At Hell Monarch Estate, Carissa noticed Zoey’s swollen face, the finger marks still visible.

“Are you alright?” Carissa asked.

Zoey smiled bitterly. “I’m fine. The injury is self-inflicted. No one at Silverstone Estate would dare touch me.”

Carissa didn’t pry, but admired Zoey’s exhausted yet dignified demeanor. A stable and composed woman was vital to managing a noble household.

“Actually, you don’t need to apologize,” Carissa said. “It’s not a big deal. I didn’t think much of it, and you shouldn’t apologize.”

After considering this, Zoey decided to be straightforward. “Your Grace, my apology is an excuse. I have something to ask you.”

Carissa lifted her cup, took a slow sip, and gazed at Zoey. “Ask.”

Carissa already suspected Yuvan’s family had sent notice to visit Silverstone Estate.

Yuvan’s every move since returning to the capital was under Rafael’s watchful eye, with Travis leading the surveillance. This attention was fitting for someone of Yuvan’s status.

Zoey tried to mask her anxiety, but the situation with Viola had drained her. She felt overwhelmed.

“Your Grace, Lady Molly has sent notice. The Earl of Silverstone is in the Southern Frontier. Prince Yuvan, after visiting the king, went to Hell Monarch Estate and now will visit Silverstone Estate. As a woman, I’m unfamiliar with the proper protocols for receiving such esteemed guests. I’d appreciate your guidance.”

Her words cleverly avoided pitfalls, making it seem she simply wanted to know proper hosting etiquette. But if it were a regular royal visit, wouldn't she know the customs?

Chapter 673

Carissa set down her cup and smiled. “I suspect Lady Molly or Lady Fiona wishes to visit your family’s matriarch. Since Lady Molly is a Princess Consort, the visit should follow the protocols for receiving a princess consort. You’ve attended enough social gatherings; you understand the rules.”

“Your Grace, you’re right. However, if other matters are involved…”

Carissa cut her off with a laugh. “There are no other matters. The Earl of Silverstone’s family and Prince Yuvan have interacted little. It’s a standard visit.”

Zoey pondered Carissa’s words, especially “nothing else.” Her concern was precisely that more might be involved. She sensed things were beyond her grasp.

Yuvan returned to the capital because of Ruth’s illness. But instead of immediately caring for Ruth, they visited Hell Monarch Estate first, then sent notice to Silverstone Estate after seeing Viola.

Zoey found this hard to believe if there was nothing more.

Having managed the Earl of Silverstone’s family for years, Zoey possessed keen observation skills and an innate ability to detect crises. In a city of powerful dukes and marquesses, it was clear why they chose to visit her home: her husband’s military power in the Southern Frontier.

“Mrs. Prince, truly nothing else. Treat them as any other guests,” Carissa said, noting Zoey’s hesitation.

She seemed to guess something, acknowledging Zoey’s capabilities. With a decisive nod, Carissa added, “If you find Lady Molly agreeable and wish to befriend her, that’s your choice. But if you feel she’s beyond your station, keeping your distance wouldn’t hurt.”