Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 161

in the following days, the threshold of Northwatch Estate was nearly worn Bat

Once rarely visited by the wives of noble families and officials, the estate now saw a steady stream of visitors

wasn't because Salvador had issed an edict, but because Carissa had returned in triumph. Though only the remain of the Duke of Northwatch's family, it was clear she was capable of upholding its prestige. During her divorce, the wives of officials had often discussed

Carissa in private gatherings. She had become a topic of their idle chatter. Now, the conversations about her were no longer casual gossip but carried a respectful undertone.

For Carissa, entertaining guests wasn't a challenge. Before she married into the Warren family, Melanie had arranged for her to receive a year's worth of training Socializing was just a matter of playing the part-smiling, chatting, godding, and following along with the conversation

Everyone enjoyed themselves, laughing and chatting, and when it was time to part ways, there was a hint of reluctance. Once the door. closed behind the departing guests, smiles would fade, sore jaws. would be rubbed, and a sip of water would be taken before preparing for the next round of guests.

That evening, Heather and Leona also arrived.

Recalling the wedding gifts that had been returned, Carissa maintained her gentle smile and greeted them, "Hello, Aunt Heather, Leona. Please, come in."

Heather felt a weight lift off her heart when she heard Carissa still address her as her aunt. She took Carissa's hand, her eyes slightly

reddened.

I thought you might be short of funds after your divorce, so I had the gifts returned. Please don't hold

smiled reassuringly. "You were just considering my situation and looking out for me, Aunt Heather. How could I possibly be upset with you? Please, don't

servants.

guided Heather to

gratitude, Heather said, "I'm glad you're not upset, Cari. That

"Cari," Leona began.

in tears. Instead of sitting down, she stepped

When you were divorced, I wanted to visit you, but I was busy planning my own wedding and couldn't get away. Please don't be angry with me."

after Carissa went to Meadow Ridge, she would always bring gifts whenever she returned. Their

conferred the title of a princess, Carissa had returned from Meadow Ridge specifically to give

congratulations.

+15 BONUS

Even after you're married, you're still crying. How could I

at her with

course." Carissa, noticing Leona's pale complexion, asked, "How does your

but her nose grew red and she began to cry again. "It's not like he would dare to mistreat

knew Leona had married the heir of the

the third-highest score in the final stage of the national exam two years ago, and received the third-ranked scholar title. He was handsome, charming, and highly talented. It was said that when he was paraded

a gift, and had fallen for him at first