Chapter 639

Carissa smiled. "Exactly. Then there's Zoey from the Earl of Silverstone's family. She possesses excellent judgment. She handled the situation between Viola and Thomas impartially, which is truly rare. In noble families, one person's honor reflects on everyone, and one person's downfall affects all. Her actions were commendable."

Violet nudged Carissa playfully with her chin. "You're right. I admire those same qualities. I wonder what my cousin is discussing with Zoey at Silverstone Estate right now. I bet she's trying to help her husband win over Oliver."

Silverstone Estate was lively. Evelyn, Zoey, Luna, and several elders from the Prince family were present.

Molly and Fiona arrived with their maids and servants, bearing an impressive array of gifts. The items piled high on the table, clearly demonstrating Molly's generosity.

Molly wasn't particularly skilled at socializing, but she was eager to display her status as a princess consort and to overshadow Fiona. Therefore, she repeatedly interrupted Fiona, showering Zoey's children with gifts. Zoey's son and two daughters received many gifts, while the children of the concubines received fewer. Despite the interruptions, Fiona remained composed, maintaining her poise and smiling as she conversed with Evelyn and Luna.

Sensing Fiona's true challenge, Zoey braced herself, choosing not to respond directly. Instead, she deflected with small talk before briefly replying. With Molly present, Zoey prioritized answering her superficial questions to maintain courtesy.

Fiona suggested a stroll around Silverstone Estate, noting the perfect time for orange blossoms. She claimed to smell their fragrance.

Zoey immediately offered to accompany her, but Fiona smiled and said, "I completely forgot I sprained my ankle a few days ago. I can't walk around the garden. Why don't you and Lady Molly walk while I chat with Madam Evelyn and Madam Luna?"

Molly, though disliking being directed, welcomed the chance to walk alone with Zoey. Smiling, she said, "Alright. Please lead the way, Madam Zoey."

Zoey felt a surge of anxiety. No one else seemed to recognize Fiona's cunning. Any misstep could spell trouble. Fiona's clever ruse had completely blindsided her.

Maintaining her composure, Zoey invited Molly outside. Smiling brightly, she said, "Orange blossoms are difficult to cultivate in the capital, but we—Ah!"

Zoey misjudged her step and stumbled over the threshold.

Molly gasped and signaled for help. Jane rushed to steady Zoey, who carefully returned to the hall with her maid's assistance.

Chapter 639 +25 BONUS

Zoey gasped, "Oh, I'm so sorry! Please don't hold it against me, Lady Molly."

Evelyn frowned, disapproval evident. "How could you be so careless?" Zoey's usual composure was surprising absent. The trip was a major embarrassment.

"I was overjoyed by Lady Molly and Lady Fiona's presence and got carried away. I truly apologize," Zoey said, slowly seating herself. "Luna, why don't you accompany Lady Molly to the garden?"

Before Luna could rise, Molly interjected, "There's no need to go out. You were injured because you indulged me. Let's just sit and chat."

Zoey apologized again, "I'm sorry to have ruined your mood, Your Grace."

Molly asked with concern, "Is your foot alright? Should we fetch a physician?"

"It hurts slightly, but I don't think it's broken. No need for a physician, but thank you for your concern, Your Grace," Zoey replied.