Chapter 924
The next evening, Cindy arrived in the capital and went straight to the Hell Monarch Estate. Carissa knew her aunt was returning but hadn't expected her so soon. Dominic had said their meeting would be several days away. When Violet announced Cindy's arrival, Carissa was halfway through removing her official uniform. She quickly finished dressing and rushed out.
The sunset was beautiful. The evening glow painted the sky with soft reds and oranges, casting a warm light on Cindy as she directed servants carrying her belongings inside.
“Aunt Cindy!”
At the sound of her name, Cindy turned. Before she could see clearly, Carissa rushed forward and hugged her tightly. With Carissa in her arms, it felt real. Tears welled up, but she quickly blinked them back, leaving only a stinging in her nose.
Cindy smiled. “What’s this? I’ve only just arrived, and you’re already trying to knock me down?”
Carissa held Cindy for a long moment before releasing her. Grinning widely, she said, “I’m just so happy to see you, Aunt Cindy.”
Cindy cupped Carissa’s face. Tears streamed down her cheeks despite her smile and trembling lips. “Silly child, let me see how much taller you’ve grown. My goodness, you’re already half a head taller than me!”
Cindy playfully measured their heights, laughing until tears flowed freely.
Carissa laughed brightly. “Of course, I’ve grown taller. How old do you think I am now?”
Cindy pinched her niece’s cheek affectionately. Carissa had grown, but Cindy knew it had been a difficult journey.
Carissa playfully stuck out her tongue, then subtly turned away to take a deep breath, stifling a chest ache. Feigning interest in the servants, she asked, “What’s all this?”
“These are all the birthday gifts we’ve collected for you over the years. I brought them all back,” Cindy answered.
“So many?”
“Just one for each year. It’s been accumulating for quite a few years.” Cindy paused, her gaze growing teary. “Some are from your seventh uncle. Go ahead, see if anything suits you.”
Carissa hummed, gathering her thoughts. “I’ll have someone check if Raf has returned. You go in and have some tea, Aunt Cindy. Violet, please take care of her while I’m gone.”
Carissa hurried to the door. Cindy watched her go, her smile fading. Tears fell heavily as she and Violet went inside. Carissa remained outside for a while, calming herself before returning.
Chapter 924 (continued)
Cindy had also regained her composure and questioned Violet about Carissa. She learned that Dominic was staying at Sullivan Estate instead of the Ministry of Justice prison and that Carissa had already visited him. This eased her mind.
Watching Carissa re-enter the room in her official uniform, Cindy smiled with pride. Carissa had not only grown up but had also achieved something significant, making a name for herself in a world that often limited women.
“Come, sit down and talk with me.” Cindy gestured for her niece to sit, putting aside the gifts. Smiling warmly, she added, “I heard from Ms. Spencer about so many things you’ve done. Tell me, how’s the position of commander treating you? Does it feel fulfilling?”
“Of course!” Carissa sat beside her aunt, her tone bright and satisfied. “It feels very fulfilling.” She used to speak with this proud tone more often, but it had become rare. She wanted her aunt to see the Carissa she used to be.
As expected, Cindy smiled widely and ruffled her hair. “As long as it’s fulfilling, that’s all that matters. Young people should live happy lives.”
Carissa rested her head on her aunt’s shoulder. Cindy had aged, her temples now gray. When Carissa last saw her, there were only a few gray strands, which her aunt had tried to hide. Now, it was impossible to conceal, and Cindy no longer bothered to try. Otherwise, she would have touched it up before returning to the capital.
Cindy worried for Carissa, but Carissa’s heart ached for her aunt as well. The battles at Victory Pass and the harsh winds of war had changed her, making her less concerned with her appearance than when she was a noblewoman in the capital.