Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Janice had always accompanied Helen, so she had intended to go along as well. However, Carissa asked her to stay behind.

"I'm short of people in my room. Please stay here and assist me for now."

Janice bowed her head. "Yes, Your Grace!"

She stopped in her tracks, and did not follow. A hint of panic flashed in her eyes-had Carissa noticed something?

Carissa smiled warmly. "I've heard from Mother that you're skilled at hairstyling. From now on, you'll work as a hairstylist in my quarters."

Seeing Carissa's gentle smile, Janice asked, "Your Grace, Lulu has always been the one to do your hair. If I take over her duties, won't it be inappropriate?" Carissa reassured her, "Lulu has other tasks to attend to. It's not about taking someone's place. There's no need for you to feel uneasy."

Janice finally felt somewhat reassured. "Understood. If Lady Helen agrees, I'll serve you in Orchid Hall, Your Grace."

She cast a secretive glance at Rafael. He remained indifferent, clearly showing no sign of suspicion.

-

Gracehold Estate was brightly lit. The Earl of Gracehold and his wife, along with other members of the household, came out to welcome Helen.

no need to make such a fuss. I've come just

present were

evening, no one from Hartstone Estate had arrived, which offered them a slight sense of relief. Just

that while Helen could be managed, she could also be

disperse yet. I'll go see Leona first, and then return to speak with

her words cast a chill over

Earl of Gracehold, Noah, fumed, "That ungrateful brat! He's disgraceful! He's brought shame upon the Earl of Gracehold's

Abigail sighed. "Your mother

he refused to allow it. He even threatened to kill himself if she was sent away. Mother initially imposed house arrest on her, but relented

face darkened. Ever since Ruby entered the household, their reputation had suffered. The indulgence of his mother, Dorothy made Samuel unruly

dismissed from

blamed others for his

officialdom, spending his davne

composing poetry, lost in this

a faint glow on the pale yellow curtains, adding to the atmosphere of sadness. Leona's eyes were swollen from crying. Seeing Helen and Violet, she thought it

freely with the

lifted, Helen and Violet stood at the bedside. Seeing