Chapter 807

“I wish I could be as carefree as you, Your Grace, but I can’t. My life is intertwined with so many others. I already have three grandsons, all older than this child, and I can’t afford to be so reckless. If I were to divorce him, I would become the biggest joke in the world, and I would also drag the Queen down with me. There’s simply too much to consider.”

Carissa understood. However, she couldn’t let Marjorie take the child back at that moment—at least, not unless Malcolm or Lionel came to claim her. She didn’t dare take that risk; after all, this was a life at stake. Even though Marjorie was doing her best to appear gracious, a person’s heart is difficult to read. It was best to be cautious.

“If you truly want to take the child home, then please ask Lord Malcolm or your son to come to Pearwater Convent in person. I can’t simply hand her over to you.” Carissa paused, her thoughts weighing heavily. “Or perhaps you should return home and think it over more carefully. Make sure you can truly accept her. It wouldn’t do anyone any good if you took her back and regretted it.”

Marjorie nodded. “I’ve thought it through deeply, but I understand your concern. I’ll go back and discuss it with them.”

“Very well,” Carissa replied. “Then I’ll take her with me for now.”

With that, Carissa exited the carriage, mounted her horse, and rode away with Violet. She temporarily entrusted the child to the abbess, making it clear that someone might come to adopt her soon.

The abbess cradled Amara—now Briar—gently, her expression warm and compassionate. She sighed softly. “If someone adopts her and she finds parents who cherish her, that would be the best outcome.”