Chapter 657 (+25 Bonus)

The next day, Rafael returned to the Supreme Court, while Carissa checked on Kyle and Jacob's study. They still hadn't emerged, so she sent in food but didn't disturb them.

Violet arrived and briefly spoke with Carissa. "Let's go," Carissa said, "and drop Ryan off at the academy on the way."

Evan and Ryan had become close friends. Although Evan didn't qualify for the academy, he'd learned much by observing Ryan.

Their carriage ride was filled with chatter, Carissa smiling and occasionally joining in. After dropping Ryan off, they went to a well-known coffeehouse in the capital.

Instead of entering, they exited through a side door and walked to Blueflower Alley. Violet stopped before a residence and knocked. Carmen opened the door, greeting them softly. "Lady Carissa, Ms. Spencer, my father is waiting inside."

Carissa asked, "How did you get out? Weren't you staying with the Lester family? Didn't Greta follow you?"

Carmen replied, "My father isn't well, so I came to visit. Greta had to see my sister."

Of course, Henry's illness was a pretext for this meeting.

They found Henry in his study. Though not actually ill, his messy hair and pale complexion were convincing. He sat slumped in his chair, his posture hunched, his eyes lacking their usual energy.

"Dad, Lady Carissa and Ms. Spencer are here," Carmen announced.

"I see them," Henry replied flatly. He studied them before saying, "Please, sit."

Carissa and Violet sat without formality.

"I heard you're willing to help rescue my mother," Henry began. "What's the plan? I need to know."

Carissa countered, "First, tell me how many concubines Grand Princess Eleanor has provided you, Lord Henry? How many children have they borne? And how many have died?"

Henry's eyes were cold. "A dozen or more, perhaps over twenty. As for children I don't know. I lost count. I've only seen a few daughters."

"What do you mean, 'lost count'?" Carissa pressed.

"Many died. I don't want to remember," Henry said, turning away. A flicker of pain briefly crossed his eyes. "Just as you probably don't want to recall your family's slaughter, Lady Carissa."

Carissa and Violet exchanged a knowing glance.

Chapter 657 (+25 Bonus) (Continued)

"You don't have to doubt me," Henry said, his gaze suddenly filled with hatred. "I hate her more than either of you. I'd love to see her destroyed, but I won't risk anything without knowing your plan."

His hatred was palpable.

Seeing Carissa and Violet silent, Carmen added, "Your Grace, believe in my father. He'll help us. He loves my mother deeply, but can't rescue her alone. If the Grand Princess falls, our family—the Marquis of Grovehill's—will no longer be under her control. We genuinely want to work with you."

Carissa sensed Carmen's sincerity. Carmen was close to the Lester family. Her family relied on Eleanor's protection but paid heavy tributes. Much of their earnings went to Eleanor, a situation no one could tolerate indefinitely. Melanie Lester's harsh treatment also played a role.

Carissa turned to Henry. "I'm willing to share the plan, but first, let me be clear. If you betray us, and our operation fails, I can protect myself. Your daughter won't be so lucky. She'll die, and it won't be pleasant. You know how cruel Grand Princess Eleanor can be."

"Of course," he said, looking at Carmen, his gaze softening with paternal affection. "Even if it costs me my life, I won't endanger hers."