Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Viola was completely floored. She couldn't believe Serena would repeatedly engage in such shameless behavior. This time, Serena had even offended Leopold!

Most troubling of all, Leopold hadn't merely grabbed her. He had caught her around the waist, likely an instinctive reaction.

As a male guest, Leopold was unaware of the earlier commotion in the garden. All he saw was a woman who appeared to be fainting with an injured eye, and he instinctively reached out to catch her. The instinctive action had been so swift that Leopold's mind lagged behind just a moment. By the time he realized what he had done, he was already holding Serena.

And it had been in full view of everyone!

Carissa's expression hardened. "Guards, escort Ms. Warren back to her residence. She's unwell."

Margaret cast a grateful glance at Carissa. If Serena wasn't sent away promptly, the situation would be difficult to resolve.

Lily and two maids quickly entered. One supported Serena's arm, while the other helped her out of the room.

Serena, initially dazed, suddenly struggled and looked toward Jessica with desperation as she was dragged away, tears streaming down her face. "Lady Jessica, you promised you would help me! Please help me!"

Her plea sparked a flurry of discussions among the guests.

for Prince Rafael

Winchester's

such underhanded tactics? She's a duchess. Why

Lady Jessica caused at Lord Winchester's household. She has been hiding at her natal home for some

and speculations reached Leopold's ears, adding

her husband had misunderstood, but how could she explain the situation

help me!" Serena, who had already been dragged out, shouted desperately. "Lady

Eleanor intervened

quelled as she looked at

eyes were dark with fury. She was upset not only with Jessica for failing to manage the situation, but also with Serena's audacity to feign fainting and

the

the matter would likely

at risk

and has nothing to do with Jessica. She

household would seek

reputation."