Frederick’s words, laced with flattery, worked their charm on the crowd. Everyone loved to hear sweet talk-Frederick’s compliments ignited the people’s sense of justice, leading them to vocally denounce those from the Warren family.
It seemed moral coercion wouldn’t work on Carissa. She hadn’t even appeared to address the matter, and Rebecca realized her efforts were futile. With that, she had no choice but to leave in disgrace. Rebecca had initially planned to have Carissa return to the Warren family, but Barrett adamantly refused. Given the overwhelming gossip about Aurora, Rebecca then thought to create a commotion to redirect the public’s ire. She hoped that by stirring up trouble, the people would shift their criticism away from the Warren family, thus giving them a break from the public’s scorn.
She had hoped her antics would at least drag Carissa into a mess of accusations. Rebecca figured that if they confronted or pushed people around, the Duke of Northwatch’s family wouldn’t have a leg to stand
on.
To her surprise, Frederick and his team countered her claims with clear evidence. They even stated they would call upon witnesses.
Those matters couldn’t withstand close scrutiny!
Left with no other options, Rebecca had to leave.
Carissa was seated in the main hall, sipping tea. She could hear all the commotion outside.
She was no longer surprised by the antics of the Warrens. Long had she seen through their true nature.
She understood their motive was to deflect attention from Aurora’s faults, and shift public opinion to protect both Aurora and the
Warren family. They sought to garner public sympathy to counteract the criticism of Aurora’s greed and recklessness on the battlefield.
In the face of such decelt and manipulation, if one were to take offense at every slight, life would become unbearable.
In the sweltering heat outside, Luld had prepared some cold drinks to help cool down the summer heat and ease any lingering anger.
After a few days of rest, Carissa’s complexion had noticeably improved, her skin looking much fairer and more refined,
Carissa smiled. “Prepare a cup for Frederick, Lily, and Holly. They need it to cool off more than anyone.”
“Already done. We stored plenty of ice in the cellar last year, so wel have more than enough,” Lulu said.
When Frederick and the two senior maids returned, their
expressions were somber. But upon entering the room and seeing. Carissa, their faces immediately brightened.
Frederick said, “My lady, don’t let those shameless people get to you. They aren’t worth the trouble.”
Carissa invited them to sit down. “I’m not upset. Consider it just a lively spectacle.”
“I’ve already sent someone to the physician’s office to have their attending physician clarify the situation. The matter of cutting off someone’s livelihood is serious, and requires a clear understanding from everyone. We can’t just dismiss those idle rumors. We need to set the record straight,” Frederick said.
Carissa nodded. “Frederick, you handle things with thoroughness. I trust you.”
Ly was fuming. Ever since the divorce, I’ve been holding onto a grudice is fitting they ve come to our door seeking rebuke, just as i wanted it’s a shame we couldn’t vent our frustrations more thorough it’s truly regrettable!”
Regardless, Carissa’s reputation had to be protected. Otherwise, Lily would have blasted the old, sickly woman without restraint. She would make sure Rebecca was thoroughly discredited!
In just a few days news of why Sebastian refused to treat Rebecca spread throughout the capital. It wasn’t from the attending physician but from Sebastian himself, who mentioned it during a consultation with an official
Sebastian simply said, “One who is ungrateful and harsh is beneath my consideration.”
He refused to accept the fee and medication costs, clearly intending for the official and his family to spread his words.
Barrett only learned later that his mother and elder brother had caused a scene at Northwatch Estate. Furious, he spent two days away from home, staying at an inn.
Even there, he couldn’t find peace; the news of his family’s troubles spread throughout the capital, and the inn was no exception.
Meanwhile, Aurora was shunned at Valor Estate and avoided by everyone. She eventually decided to return to her parents’ home for a few days, hoping to escape the situation.
Upon arriving, she discovered that her parents had sold their house and left the capital.
She asked her neighbor, who, upon seeing Aurora’s veiled face, responded curtly. “Who wouldn’t leave under such circumstances? Every day, people point fingers and insult them. If your parents didn’t die from how furious they were with you, count yourself lucky!”
+15 BONUS
Aurora had never imagined her parents would act so swiftly. They had likely sold the house at a low price.
It also made sense. With the gifts and money the Warrens had given. them for her and Barrett’s marriage, her parents were set for life. They no longer needed to endure the scorn of the people in the capital. Yet, Aurora felt a pang of sadness. She understood her parents’ decision, but being abandoned by them was a painful blow.
