Chapter 922 (+25 Bonus)

Rafael had always found Carissa's descriptions of Adrian somewhat unfamiliar. In the prince's eyes, Adrian's actions were measured, neither overly serious nor overly indulgent, but protective of his apprentices. Carissa, however, described Everett as erratic, quick to punish without warning, and feared by everyone.

Dominic watched them with a curious expression. "So, is he interesting or not?"

Carissa groaned. "Raf is Sage Everett's direct apprentice, so of course he thinks his mentor is interesting. But Everett is only kind to him. The rest of us get nothing but harsh punishments. Even my senior apprentice, who is calm and steady, is considered too frivolous."

Dominic gasped. "Wait, you two are fellow apprentices?"

Carissa corrected him. "He joined later, so he's my junior apprentice."

"So, how does this junior apprentice treat his senior apprentice?" Dominic asked playfully.

Carissa's cheeks flushed. "Very well!"

Dominic gave Rafael a knowing look. Sometimes, a man's gaze spoke volumes.

Back at Victory Pass, Dominic had worried silently. If Carissa remarried, would the Hell Monarch ever disdain her? He'd never understood Rafael's intentions in marrying her. Was there a conspiracy or hidden plot?

Dominic's letters from Rafael contained little mention of their relationship. Most focused on Fawnrun City, leaving Dominic with more questions. After all, as a prince and accomplished man, didn't Rafael have countless options for a wife? Even if Salvador disapproved of his marrying into nobility and feared his military success, the possibilities were endless.

Dominic had considered love as the reason, but it was a fleeting thought. Believing that would have jeopardized his vigilance, harming Carissa.

Now, however, Dominic saw clearly. He recognized the signs of affection; he'd seen it in Hector's gaze towards Melanie, and in his sons' affections for their wives.

He listened as Carissa continued, already knowing most of what she said about Meadow Ridge, including Adrian and Everett's personalities. His granddaughter had attended Meadow Ridge as a child; naturally, he'd investigated thoroughly.

Two hours later, Carissa reluctantly allowed Rafael to lead her away. Before leaving, she turned, eyes glistening with tears.

"I'll bring Ryan in a couple of days," she said.

Dominic smiled, despite the ache in his heart. "Good. Go on now. I should rest."

At the gates of Hell Monarch Estate, Kyle waited with Violet and Travis. He noticed Carissa's red-rimmed eyes.

Violet stepped forward, linking arms with Carissa. "I made dessert. Let's have something sweet."

Chapter 922 (+25 Bonus)

Rafael didn't seem upset that Violet was taking Carissa away. He understood; sometimes, close friends offered the best comfort. Besides, Violet had made dessert.

Inside the side hall, Carissa quickly finished a bowl of dessert.

"Is it good?" Violet asked.

Carissa put down the bowl. "It's a bit salty, but the spice is just right. It masks the sweetness."

"Salty? It tastes fine to me. Life's like that, you know? You need a bit of everything—sour, sweet, bitter, spicy, salty—to savor it," Violet said, her comforting words delivered with her usual lightheartedness. Carissa smiled faintly, her eyes still red and puffy. "Vivi, I'm fine, really."

"I know you are." Violet nodded. "Remember our sparring match at Blue Stone Spring?"

"Of course. You lost three times."

"We only sparred three rounds," Violet said, propping her chin on her hand. "The first time, I went wild. The second time, I screamed, and the third time I cried. You mocked me for being weak and unable to accept reality. You were so cocky."

Violet laughed. "I remember thinking, 'Just wait until you face defeat. Let's see if you cry!'"