Chapter 638

Carissa contemplated the possibility, then said, "That could really happen. Raf is quite sentimental, and people like him tend to get swept up in emotional turmoil more easily."

Violet's eyes widened in disbelief. "You actually agree with me? You should at least try to argue. Aren't you bothered by it at all?"

"Weren't we simply analyzing the situation? It's not actually happening, so why should I be bothered?" Carissa asked, stunned.

"I'm talking about it hypothetically," Violet clarified.

"Why would you take a hypothetical situation seriously?" Carissa countered.

Violet stared at her friend and poked Carissa's forehead with her finger. "I seriously wonder if you have any feelings for your husband at all. I've never been in love, but what's mine is mine. If someone covets what's mine, just the thought of it would make me unhappy."

"You're so petty!" Carissa retorted. "Over something that hasn't happened yet! Getting angry if it really happens is one thing, but getting worked up now will only harm your emotions and health, not to mention your relationship with your husband. It's not worth it."

Recalling Violet's earlier comments about not wanting to marry, Carissa added, "Besides, you're the one who doesn't want to get married or talk about feelings. What experience or qualifications do you have to advise me?"

Violet rolled her eyes. "I understand feelings just fine, so why can't I comment on your situation? I don't want to get married because I feel that no man deserves me. I'm great and one of a kind. There won't be another woman like me in this world, just like there won't be another woman like you. But we're different. You would have had to enter the palace if you hadn't gotten married. Besides, Prince Rafael treats you well. But me? I don't have a secret admirer who has loved me since I was young and has been waiting for me. So, what's the point of getting married? Why not just enjoy my life? I don't even have to worry about children. Look at Leona—she nearly lost her life giving birth."

After a pause, Violet asked nervously, "Tell me, are you afraid of giving birth?"

Carissa nodded. "Of course. I asked Ivy, and she said many women have died during childbirth."

Violet sighed. "Exactly! Giving birth is such a painful ordeal, and if it's a girl, the child will also suffer. No way I'm going through that! I won't ever think about marriage!"

Suddenly recalling something, Violet added, "By the way, you once mentioned wanting to start an academy for women, right? I think it's a great idea."

"Didn't you want to set up a martial arts class instead?" Carissa replied absentmindedly. "Why the sudden support for the women's academy?"

"It's not contradictory. We can have both a martial arts class and an academy for women. I want them to learn more than just the typical teachings on womanly virtues. They should study a variety of subjects, including what men learn, so they can broaden their horizons. Isn't that also what you were thinking?" Violet explained.

Carissa leaned against the door frame, her gaze distant. "When Barrett first brought Aurora back, he said she wouldn't be confined to the inner courtyard. Aurora also dismissed the notion. She looked down on women in the inner courtyard, thinking they only cared about the rivalry between wives and concubines. But the truth is, many women have to spend their lives in the inner courtyard. They may never see a battlefield or have the chance to take exams for official titles. It seems that marrying and having children is the only path for them. Even if that's the case, I hope there will be women like Rosalind, who is well-read and knowledgeable about history and literature. They should have a broader perspective, a generous heart, and know how to love themselves. Even if they're trapped in the inner courtyard for life, they shouldn't be treated lightly by others."

Violet leaned against her friend. "I might not understand everything you're saying, and I haven't experienced it myself, but I'll support you in whatever you do, unconditionally and without limits."

Carissa chuckled softly and wrapped her arms around Violet. "You know, when we went to see Rosalind on Thomas's behalf, her words made me even more determined. She admired Thomas, but also knew how to think rationally. She understood her priorities and kept her head when considering the practical issues. She didn't let emotions push her into making decisions that seemed like the easiest way to be happy in that moment. That was the perspective and strength that education has given her."

"I don't know what that strength is, but I really admire women like that," Violet replied lazily.