Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Once Carissa finished speaking, she gave Eleanor a respectful bow.

"Aunt Eleanor, you've treated my mother-in-law with such sincerity, which moves me greatly. Though my past reputation is not the best, it is understandable that you have concerns.

"However, I promise to be respectful and always prioritize my mother-in-law's wishes. As for the pearls, I had always planned to give some to my mother-in-law. After I visit my family and guild members, I will send a jar of them over. If she wishes to gift them to someone, that is her own decision. As her daughter-in-law, I wouldn't dare interfere."

Eleanor understood that Carissa was providing a way out-and she had no choice but to take it.

Her carefully maintained reputation for half her life could not be ruined by a few pearls. The way those martial artists favored Carissa was clear to Eleanor from yesterday.

Moreover, it was better not to offend Helen too much. Since Helen was now learning to resist, it would be difficult to extract more money in the future. It was better to return the pearls without protest and keep her complacent. Later, Eleanor could still extract plenty of wealth and treasures from her.

Despite her seething anger, Eleanor's face suddenly broke into a forced smile. "Since you understand how to respect and be devoted to your mother-in-law, I can rest easy. Why would I covet a few pearls? As you said, I just wanted to test you."

She waved to her servants. "Bring those pearls here."

Carissa nodded, and smiled. "Thank you, Aunt Eleanor. And let's not forget the three thousand silver coins you owe my mother-in-law."

Eleanor paused before gruffly ordering, "Fetch the three thousand silver coins in banknotes as well, and bring them here."

did you see? I told

indeed-Helen was still

reaction, Eleanor felt both relieved

How truly naive!

long as Helen continued to believe in her, that was enough. A

and Gillian were unsure if it was exactly five-they hadn't dared to scrutinize them closely at the time, and had only grasped a handful. The pearls were large, and it was already a wonder they had

coins in banknotes were handed over, and Helen grasped them tightly in her hands. She

see that? You can't measure a noble person's intentions with a petty

a haughty smile. "Oh? So you suspected me all

Carissa didn't

Eleanor," she

anger was palpable-despite all this, Helen still praised Eleanor. If it hadn't been for it being only the second day after

Eleanor, suggesting a visit again

a smile, Eleanor instructed

and boarded the carriage by herself. She was fuming, planning to have a few words with Helen once she was on the

the carriage, the latter trembled with