Chapter 745

Rafael and the scribe entered from behind the partition. The prince first embraced Carissa before instructing someone to take Florence away.

Carissa, remaining composed, calmly instructed, "Go to the apple tree and find that box. Note the origins of those women."

"Understood!"

The scribe left to carry out the task.

As Carissa leaned against Rafael, she felt a suffocating discomfort in her heart and throat.

"Let's not dig any deeper," Rafael said, concern etched on his face. "Don't dwell on what she said. Your father is blameless. It was Aunt Eleanor's obsession that harmed herself and others."

Carissa's face paled, and it took her a moment to regain her voice.

"I'm fine. I can continue the interrogation. Once Florence is better, I'll question her again. At least we now know the origins of those women. We can inform their families. They no longer need to search or live in fear, like Jacob's family. They will know their loved ones are dead."

Carissa's legs felt weak. The pain of loss was as agonizing as the uncertainty of waiting.

Taking a deep breath, she steadied herself. "Moreover, Florence revealed that Grand Princess Eleanor hated King Augustus. King Sigmund was King Augustus's favorite son, suggesting revenge as her motive. It's likely she and Prince Yuvan plotted treason even while King Sigmund was alive… At least now we understand her motive for rebellion."

Rafael nodded, holding her close. "Yes, this information is invaluable. We won't need to question her further."

He had observed everything from behind the partition—Carissa's discomfort and clenched fists. In her heart, Hector was a hero, yet he had been ensnared in Eleanor's passions and vendettas. After years of sacrifice, he continued to be blamed, and Carissa's anger and pain were palpable.

Composing herself, Carissa pressed her hands against Rafael's chest, fighting back nausea.

"She's so cruel! Her so-called deep feelings harmed so many, most of whom resembled my mother. She even used my mother as an excuse to hurt others. I won't rest until she's destroyed."

"Don't worry. Evil will be repaid," Rafael said softly, patting her back. "Let's get some fresh air."

"Okay. We'll interrogate Florence slowly once she wakes up."

Chapter 745 (Bonus)

The two stepped outside. Sunlight broke through the clouds, dispelling some of the interrogation room's shadows.

Heavily made-up, Violet went to the Lester Estate to see Carmen. The Lester family recognized her, but the gatekeeper stopped her at the entrance.

After Eleanor's downfall, the Lesters had lost their powerful connections and support. They had turned away the ill and bedraggled Melanie Lester, placing her and Carmen in a nearby shack.

"I've told you, she's not here. Find her in that shack," the gatekeeper said irritably.

Already fuming from a morning altercation with Travis, Violet was enraged by the gatekeeper's insolence. She seized his ear and shouted, "Lead the way!"

The gatekeeper yelped, attracting the attention of the Lester family. Andrew Lester rushed out with others. Seeing Violet twisting the gatekeeper's ear, he was enraged and about to protest, but before he could speak, Violet kicked the front door down with a powerful kick. The noise drained the color from Andrew's face, and he hesitated.

Violet dragged the gatekeeper by the ear to the shack. After knocking and seeing Carmen, she released him.