Chapter 831

The next day, after his shift, Barret failed to buy the Evergreen Pills. He asked Amelia to purchase eight at Arcane Sanctum the following day, and also to find a wet nurse and a midwife. Amelia agreed; she needed to buy Snowdrop Pills for Rebecca as well. Although Amelia’s illness had caused her to neglect household duties, she knew their funds were low, despite the estate's opulent appearance.

Before going out the next day, she checked the accounts, only to find a mere ten silver coins remaining. She knew their finances were strained, but this paltry sum was shocking. She expected at least two or three hundred silver coins, especially since the family hadn't yet split from the second branch, and most funds had been transferred to the family account. Her husband's, father-in-law's, and Barret's salaries, plus their one hundred gold coin reward, should have left them with considerably more.

Reviewing the accounts, Amelia saw that Serena's dowry payments, Aurora's withdrawals, and Viola's significant monthly expenses had depleted their funds. Rebecca's medicine and the household staff's allowances further reduced the balance. Every entry was accounted for; not a single coin was unaccounted for.

However, Viola's spending was excessive. She consumed a pound of royal jelly monthly, in addition to other supplements. The household already possessed ample nourishing foods—many sent after Barret's injury, including a generous supply from Viola's family. Why, then, did Viola need to buy more?

Determined to understand, Amelia visited Grace Mansion to speak with Viola. Amelia, known for her timid nature, meant no offense, but Viola misinterpreted her question. Viola believed Amelia was criticizing her pregnancy spending. Enraged, Viola scolded Amelia and even offered her a pair of scissors, urging her to end her pregnancy to save money.

Horrified, Amelia fled Grace Mansion, hearing Viola's sobs behind her. As she composed herself, a maid arrived, saying Rebecca was unwell and needed a physician immediately.

"If she's ordered it, get one! Why tell me?" Amelia snapped, frustrated.

Startled by Amelia's unusual outburst, the maid explained, "Madam Rebecca says it's serious. She wants Sebastian from Arcane Sanctum, and insists you fetch him personally."

"What right do I have to summon Sebastian?" Amelia felt near collapse. "Even buying medicine, I must watch my words! You all know that!"

The maid fell silent, pale and awkward.

Amelia pressed her hand to her forehead. Each day felt torturous. They lacked money and dignity; problems mounted relentlessly. Remembering Barret's requests for Evergreen Pills, a wet nurse, and a midwife, the weight of it all pressed down on her. Each necessity required funds, not to mention Rebecca's Snowdrop Pills.

Prioritizing Rebecca, Amelia withdrew the ten silver coins, added her meager savings, and pawned some valuable jewelry. Leaving the pawnshop, she felt heartbroken; she had few decent pieces left. The finer jewelry, gifts from Carissa, had already been sold. Now, only a few irreplaceable trinkets remained, which she reluctantly pawned, intending to redeem them later.

Walking to Arcane Sanctum, tears streamed down her face. The only gold jewelry remaining in her hair was a hairpin, a wedding dowry gift from her mother. Her jewelry box now contained only gold-plated items. The mistress of the grand Valor Estate was reduced to living like a commoner. The sorrow was overwhelming. How could she not feel heartbroken?