Chapter 640

The Earl of Silverstone's family had invited a theatrical troupe to Silverstone Estate, a necessary precaution when hosting a princess consort. However, after consulting their guests, they discovered no one wished to attend a performance, so the idea was abandoned.

Fiona and Molly remained at the estate until evening. Fiona smiled and said, "Prince Yuvan has been in Valken for some time and rarely returns to the capital. We have few friends here, so this pleasant conversation is a stroke of fate. Why not visit our residence in a few days? One of our companions, a renowned fortune teller, Mr. Wayne, is the best at predicting fortunes, health, and future events."

Evelyn's eyes lit up. "Mr. Wayne? He has a distinguished reputation! I would be grateful for an introduction, Your Grace."

"Then it's settled, Madam Evelyn. Come visit us," Fiona replied, smiling.

Zoey's smile faltered. This back-and-forth would make the two families appear very close to outsiders—a situation she couldn't allow. Earlier, she could have used her clumsy fall as an excuse, but with Fiona's invitation accepted, refusal would be offensive. Was it better to risk offense or become the subject of gossip?

Weighing her options, Zoey recalled Carissa's assurance that the visit held no ulterior motive. If true, being impolite might even be advantageous. Smiling, Zoey said, "Mother, Lady Fiona is joking. We shouldn't impose. Lady Ruth is ill, and Prince Yuvan and Lady Molly are caring for her. We should wait until Lady Ruth improves; we mustn't interfere with Prince Yuvan's duty."

Evelyn, understanding her daughter-in-law's meticulous manners, knew Zoey had a compelling reason. She smiled and said, "Yes, you're right! I'm getting forgetful. Lady Ruth is unwell; Prince Yuvan and Lady Molly must be worried. It wouldn't be right to intrude."

Luna agreed, "Mother and Zoey are right. Let's wait until Lady Ruth recovers. We could see her then."

Fiona, though socially adept, recognized the conversation's closure. Yuvan and his family had returned to care for Ruth, a pretense she couldn't ignore. Smiling, she said, "Alright. Once Lady Ruth is well, I'll send word. Honor us with your presence then."

"Of course," Evelyn replied, smiling. Everyone agreed.

Though Fiona and Molly failed to achieve their goal, it was time to depart. Jane supported Zoey as they escorted the guests, Zoey sighing in relief once the carriage left.

"Everyone, let's go inside; I have something important to say," Zoey announced. With family elders present, she needed to clarify matters. A large family risked leaks; they needed to avoid conflicting narratives.

Back in the main hall, Zoey said seriously, "Any invitation from Prince Yuvan's family must be declined with a plausible excuse. If they host gatherings for capital figures, we can attend as a group, but never alone."

Everyone exchanged glances. Evelyn asked, sensing something amiss, "What's going on? If we can't go, we can't meet Mr. Wayne?"

Zoey maintained her serious tone. "We can't meet him, Mother. We don't know Prince Yuvan well. We're the second family visited since their return. We know the implications. It's not the big risks, but the small ones. Take this seriously. Remember what I said, and don't gossip."

The room fell silent as they considered the situation. Zoey was right. Many noble families existed; why were they first, and why such lavish gifts? Something was amiss.

While the Earl of Silverstone's family navigated this situation, chaos erupted at Gracehold Estate. Samuel's arrest prompted Dorothy to threaten a hunger strike unless the family secured his release.