Chapter 660

After returning to the coffeehouse, Violet and Carissa ate. They paid their bill, exited through the main entrance, and returned to their carriage.

On the way, Violet suddenly ducked into a side street. She hid briefly, then rejoined the main thoroughfare, quickly blending into the crowd. Her attire was simple—a silver hairpin was her only adornment. While not easily tracked, caution was always wise.

As a martial artist, the walk to the Farrell family residence was not tiring; it wasn't far. Upon arriving at the gates, she saw a carriage parked to the right. Thomas was helping Alice alight, followed by Opal and a maid.

Violet smiled and called out, "Well, I've arrived at the perfect time! Are you all heading out?"

Opal smiled. "Violet! It's been a while."

Violet replied, "I've been busy, but finally found time to visit. But it seems you're all leaving?"

Alice pulled Violet close, putting an arm around her. "You arrived just in time! Come with us to Grovehill Estate to help your godbrother."

"Help him?" Violet mused. "Is the Kingsley family introducing a young lady to Thomas?"

Alice beamed. "Exactly! Yesterday, Gemma (Madam Kingsley) mentioned her cousin's daughter sought her assistance. She's from the Sanford family in Stonebridge County—a woman of good character and grace, though a bit older. She was previously engaged, but her fiancé died. In Stonebridge County, they're less worldly; believing her a jinx because her fiancé died before marriage, she's delayed remarriage. She came to Gemma hoping to find a suitable match in the capital."

Violet exclaimed, "A jinx? How is that possible? She wasn't even married! It's absurd."

After helping Alice into the carriage, Violet turned to Thomas, who looked somewhat overwhelmed. They waited for the driver to bring the horses forward, then Thomas mounted his own.

In the carriage, Opal explained that several matchmakers had visited, but none met with Thomas's approval. The matter was at an impasse, making Gemma's suggestion fortuitous.

The woman was approximately twenty-five, of good character, and from a respectable family—a promising match. Her willingness to travel to the capital for a proposal suggested she would be willing to accompany Thomas if he received a posting elsewhere.

They decided to overlook Thomas's objections and meet her.

The Marquis of Grovehill's family had maintained a discreet profile in recent years, particularly after Henry became Prince Consort. As a marquis family connected to the royal family, their reputation remained largely unaffected by past events, such as the miniature chastity belt sculpture incident. Eleanor had also garnered significant support before the incident. Therefore, Alice was genuinely enthusiastic about Gemma's endorsement.

"Your godbrother is so difficult! He's deemed every woman unsuitable—either not good enough or incapable of handling life's hardships. He hasn't found anyone he likes, and I'm anxious," Alice said, anxiously clutching Violet's hand. "And that matter—that woman came and confronted him! She's married, yet so careless! Who knows if she'll return? It could ruin both our families' reputations!"

Alice's concern stemmed from Viola's actions; securing a match for Thomas quickly was the only way to prevent further incidents.

Violet smiled reassuringly. "Let's see. Even the best conditions don't guarantee compatibility, right?"

"He's just too picky! Go with him to assess her. If she seems suitable, perhaps you can persuade him," Alice urged.

Violet, curious to meet this Darin, agreed. "Alright. If her character and everything else are satisfactory, I'll certainly try to persuade Thomas."