Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Thinking about all of this, Helen felt a mix of emotions.

When Rafael was on the battlefield before this, he would refuse any mention of marriage. The resoluteness he expressed in his letters had led her to believe that this son of hers was prepared to remain a bachelor for life.

Yet, as soon as he returned victorious, he announced he wanted to marry Carissa.

Granted, Carissa was a divorcee, but at least it meant he was willing to take a wife. Besides, after investigating, they found out that Barrett had never touched her. She was still a virgin, so it was acceptable, if only barely.

Accompanied by Gillian, Helen entered the newlywed suite on the eastern side of the building. White wedding banners adorned every wall, and new furniture was draped in white silk, tied with intricate decorative knots. The intricate knots were a traditional wedding touch, and they were called Eternal Knots, which represent eternal love and harmonious union.

Nearly every new item had a white ribbon on it. Even the large folding screen had a white shawl draped around and tied in the middle with a big, intricate bow.

Helen muttered to herself, "So many Eternal Knots-did I give birth to a son or a daughter? Why is it all so feminine?"

As she stepped into the inner room, she was met with a sea of white and gold. New brocade quilts were neatly stacked on the bed, and the bluish-white bed curtains draped to the floor. Though the bride had yet to be brought in, the room was already heated, making it comfortably warm.

All the furniture in the newlywed suite was brand new, and the quality was no less than what Helen had in her own quarters. The only things missing were the antique shelves and the antiques themselves. Rafael had previously hinted that Helen was too extravagant and wasteful. Yet, it seemed that it was because the extravagance was reserved for him and his bride.

a round of the room, then rubbed her temples and said to Gillian, "I don't

and replied, "My lady,

Gillian was actually pleased-after all, Rafael was finally

quite devoted

"Isn't that a good thing? Why would that

She's already made the first move, offering kindness

chuckled. "That's a separate matter altogether. Keeping her in line is still necessary. After all, what daughter-in-law doesn't have

for me to make sure she follows the rules. No matter how many gifts she gives me, the rules must not be

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Chapter 319

She

#25 BONUS

newlywed suite, her frustration evident. "In a few days, I'll go pick out some more furniture. The chaise lounge in my room is uncomfortable. It should be made of cherry

replace it," Gillian replied with

didn't have the

Gillian had been Helen's nanny. To put it bluntly, she saw Helen as her daughter. Gillian had no family to return