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.

learned how to

shimmered with unspoken emotions. She

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

hoping to be as clear-headed as

the table, already guessing what he was

can you manage another small cup? We

wine. We must drink it. I

seat next to Carissa. Their eyes met, revealing emotions they no longer tried to hide. Carissa blushed and lowered her gaze as she poured

delicate white ribbons, adding a touch of elegance. As the wine was poured, a rich rose aroma filled the

one to his wife, feeling his heart suddenly

as their faces drew close, nearly touching. They could almost hear each other's breath.

wine means we will grow old

mind was clear, though his heart was still under the spell of

flushed a deep red. She nodded, watching Rafael lift his cup and drink, and she

It was smooth and well-crafted, with just