Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Rafael continued to put food on her plate, but he avoided answering her question. Carissa suppressed her curiosity. After all, it wasn't a particularly important matter.

He smiled, and deflected by saying, "After Grand Princess Eleanor's birthday banquet today, I'm sure there will be many new topics among the noble families in the capital."

Carissa gave him a playful glare. "Yes, many noble ladies will have their hearts broken. When Lady Helen announced our engagement, many looked at me with disdain."

"There will be many who envy and resent me," Rafael said meaningfully.

At least Barrett would regret it. Even Salvador had been moved as well.

"Not really. Who would want a woman who has been divorced?" Carissa said.

Rafael tapped her forehead lightly with the end of his spoon. "You're about to become the Hell Monarch's princess consort. Are you still belittling yourself?"

"Such is the way of the world." She tapped him back playfully, then quickly moved away, smiling. "I'm not belittling myself. I know how outstanding I am."

so freely, with light shining in her eyes, touched Rafel deeply. Even if

sadness that had once lingered in her eyes when she first arrived at

that perhaps everyone had their own pain. He was forced to marry someone he didn't love

the woman knew she had missed out on such a fine man, would she regret

be able to respect each other as friends. The next day, officials from the

also invited to Northwatch Estate, where they began the traditional courtship

which greatly pleased Theodore. He felt assured

enhanced the Sinclair family's reputation through her achievements, but she was also marrying into the royal family. This would surely make those who had looked down on her and her

also invited. After consulting the

these words, Rafael decided

quite fast. The twenty-fourth of December

be conducted with proper ceremony. He asked Theodore and Carissa for their opinions, and once they agreed, the date was set for the twenty-fourth

Rafael asked, "I still need to visit Meadow Ridge personally to ask for your master's consent. Do you