Chapter 870

Helen often spoke of Sigmund, sometimes praising him, other times complaining. Regardless, she always adopted the demeanor of a spoiled child, seemingly never having grown up. She had been the most carefree concubine in the palace, enjoying her position without navigating intricate schemes. Even if plots existed, they never directly targeted her; Victoria always protected her. Pampered as a child, pampered while raising her own children, and now pampered by her daughter-in-law, Helen seemingly never worried.

Yet, she fretted over trivial matters, such as squabbles with Dakota and Josephine, and competed with them childishly. Victory brought joyful kicks; defeat, puffed cheeks and temporary annoyance. Even Eleanor and Jessica's schemes only elicited fleeting anger. Negative emotions rarely lingered. This had been the pattern of her life.

Now, she eagerly desired grandchildren—not genuinely, but because Dakota's son had one, igniting a similar desire in her. Honestly, did she even like children? Their incessant crying and loud noises hadn't revealed any redeeming qualities. Ultimately, she simply wanted what Dakota had.

After listening to Helen, Carissa returned to her room, finding Qiana applying a hot compress to Rafael's forehead. It seemed to be helping; the swelling was smaller and turning black. Lulu brought pound cakes; Rafael ate two. Carissa then instructed them to prepare dinner. Afterward, they lingered, Carissa finally able to look at his face without flinching.

Rafael pulled her into an embrace, his gaze intense. "You haven't paid me any attention for several nights. You just crash into bed."

Carissa smiled. "But your leg is fractured, so it's inconvenient."

His fingers brushed her cheek, then her brow. His dark eyes brimmed with desire.

"I've heard there are other positions we can try."

Carissa pressed her hand to his lips, her face flushed. "I—I won't!"

Undeterred, Rafael playfully bit her fingertip, his gaze heating. "I've heard martial artists are best suited for this. You practice every morning, so why not apply that effort in bed? It might even improve your leg techniques."

Carissa wrapped her arms around his neck, her expression softening. "And who told you that? I had no idea anyone was coaching you."

He turned away, embarrassed. "Never mind. Just know it's someone who knows a thing or two about it."

Had he inadvertently revealed his source? His books were locked away safely.

"Well, if a specialist taught you, then I suppose it's worth a try."

Carissa extinguished the candles, leaving a small flame. In the soft glow, she asked, "Can you walk over here? Should I carry you?"

"I'm not completely crippled! I can walk… but you could help. It wasn't this painful before, but after Livius applied the medicine, it hurts even more." He was acting aggrieved. Carissa was surprised by his unreasonable side.

The canopy and their clothes were shed. The dim light couldn't penetrate the thick drapery, the shadows whispering for privacy. A new, intense world opened up.

Yet, Rafael remained unsatisfied. He kissed Carissa's neck. "I think with my stamina, I could go for another round."

Carissa, trembling slightly, spoke in a hoarse voice, "I think with my stamina, I need a few days to recover."

Tenderness filled him. He hugged her close and kissed her cheek. "Get some sleep."