Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Lily watched from the side, deciding to leave the couple to sort things out themselves. Whether it ended in a fight or a scolding, Carissa and Rafael would handle it on their own.

Carissa was upset, and if Lily stayed to offer advice, she might only fuel her anger. Carissa wasn't angry with Rafael but with Adrian. Lily left the room, understanding that it was better to leave the couple alone, so that Carissa would feel sorry for her husband, given the state he was in.

After wiping Rafael's face and cleaning his hands, Carissa gave him some water to rinse his mouth. It helped him feel more awake.

He was indeed clearer-headed now, even able to notice that Carissa was still upset. He understood it wasn't directed at him, but found her all the more beautiful when her delicate face was clouded with displeasure.

The candles cast a warm glow throughout the room, and the intertwined knots hung around the lanterns seemed to warm his heart.

Rafael cleared his throat softly and asked, "I made most of these Eternal Knots myself. Do they look good?"

Carissa, who was in the middle of portioning some food for him, glanced around. She wouldn't have noticed the knots around the room if he hadn't said anything. It wasn't that there weren't enough of them in sight, but she was anxious enough to not be paying attention to them.

Surprised, she looked at his long, slender hands and asked, "You made these? You know how to do such detailed work?"

Rafael's hair was slightly disheveled, but his face remained strikingly handsome, his smile lighting up his eyes.

didn't, but I learned how

She feigned ignorance as

wanted to make them with my own hands. I wanted to be more involved with our wedding." Rafael paused

his forehead, trying to shake off the lingering dizziness, hoping to be as clear-headed as possible so she wouldn't think he was speaking

walked to the table, already

would you like to tell me now? Also, can you

ceremonial wine. We must drink it. I can handle

unsteady but managing to walk in a straight line. He took a seat next to Carissa. Their

adding a touch of elegance. As the wine was poured, a rich rose aroma filled the air. It was indeed the perfect

one to his wife, feeling his heart suddenly

intertwined as their faces drew close, nearly touching. They could almost hear each other's breath. Perhaps it was the glow

ceremonial wine means we will grow

clear, though his heart was still under the spell

deep red. She nodded, watching Rafael lift his cup

well-crafted, with just the right kick. After finishing the drink, she looked into his dark