Chapter 727

In the side hall, Derek enjoyed refreshments, sipping coffee. Upon seeing Carissa enter, he smiled warmly and rose to greet her.

“No need for formalities, Mr. Walker. Please, sit down,” Carissa urged, gently pushing down his hand. She knew Derek had significantly helped her and her mother over the years, often in ways she couldn't openly acknowledge. Today seemed the perfect opportunity to express her gratitude.

Once Derek sat, Carissa bowed slightly. “I know you’ve done a great deal for my mother and me, Mr. Walker. Since marrying Rafael, I can only imagine how much you’ve advocated for him with the king. I truly thank you.”

Derek smiled kindly. “Your gratitude is overwhelming, Your Grace. Please, sit. I want to speak with you for a moment.”

Carissa sat, her expression warm and inviting. “Please, proceed.”

“It’s about your new position,” Derek said, his demeanor growing serious as he met her gaze. “You must do your utmost. His Majesty trusts and utilizes you; he will give you his full confidence.

“But remember, Your Grace—no matter what, you and His Highness must never let your hearts drift apart. Maintain trust, barring betrayal. Communicate openly, and never let disputes arise from matters of interest or power. Remember, you are one as a couple.”

Carissa pondered his words. How deep was Salvador’s trust in her? Clearly, it couldn't be absolute. Shared interests didn't guarantee absolute trust, and Salvador was inherently suspicious. His granting of any trust at all was generous.

As for their unity as a couple, Carissa understood that well. She and Rafael were married; even with shared goals, differing perspectives would inevitably lead to conflict.

As commander of the Mystic Army, she had to follow Salvador's orders, meaning loyalty to the throne superseded all else. Conflicts were inevitable, making trust between husband and wife even more crucial.

Yet, Carissa sensed another layer to Derek’s words. His emphasis on their unity made her wonder if Salvador intended to use her position to sow discord between her and Rafael.

For now, she dismissed the concern. She hadn’t yet entered the fray; there was no need for undue worry. As Adrian often said, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” If conflicts arose, she and Rafael could resolve them through communication. There was no reason to dwell on the hypothetical.

“With your advice, I know how to proceed, Mr. Walker. You needn't say more; I understand everything,” Carissa assured him.

Derek sighed inwardly. What a smart, earnest girl! She could have pressed further, but she understood his difficult position and likely didn't want to burden him. But… did she truly understand the implications?

Carissa met his eyes with a clear gaze. “You needn't worry. I know how to strike a balance. I will remain loyal in my duties and won't allow anything to come between Raf and me.”

Relieved by her genuine understanding, Derek stood. “There’s little more I can say. Just share our conversation with His Highness.”

“Of course. Thank you, Mr. Walker.”

Derek waved. “I’ll take my leave now.”

“I’ll see you out.”

Carissa walked him to the door, where royal guards waited. As Jacob was reuniting with his sister, Carissa had personally distributed monetary gifts to the guards. However, knowing Derek's character, she didn't offer him a reward now, intending to send a gift later, reflecting his preferences.