Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Ruby continued to cry uncontrollably, her sobs wracking her body. Despite her tears, her fingers clung desperately to Samuel's shirt, as if holding onto him was the only thing keeping her grounded. Though her eyes had run dry, her cries were still filled with a deep sense of hurt and vulnerability.

"Such a mess!" Rafael commented as he stood up, taking Carissa's hand in his.

He turned to the stunned Helen. "Mom, let's go."

Helen snapped out of her shock and rose to her feet.

But before leaving, she glanced at Heather and said, "I just went in to see Leona. She thought it was you and was so happy, but when she realized it wasn't, she was disappointed. You're such a weak mother, so it's no wonder your daughter turned out the same. You know very well who I caused a scene for today. If you have any shred of dignity as a mother, don't let this slide so easily. Otherwise, you'll lose all respect in my eyes."

"Mother, let's go. Every mother has maternal instincts. I'm sure Aunt Heather knows what to do," Carissa calmly added.

"Carissa!" Heather called out, her eyes brimming with tears. "I know you're here for Leona today, but have you thought about what this will mean for her? After all this commotion, life in this household will only get harder for her."

"Is it easy for her now?" Carissa countered, sweeping a glance across the room. "Look around. Who here has stood up for Leona? If Alana hadn't punched Samuel twice, he would've only gotten a scolding for pushing her."

Carissa's eyes were filled with disappointment. She truly didn't understand what Harvey and Heather were so afraid of.

put him above the Earl of Gracehold's family. Yet, despite

wasn't this timid. When

go," Rafael said, leading

left, Travis led the household soldiers out and faded into the

still on, and everyone's eyes,

thin as a stick despite being pregnant, she couldn't hold back her

treat you like

give you the respect you deserve. I regret it so much. Why did

left. She murmured, "It's my fault. I was the one who liked him first, but he said he liked me too... Mom, I

utterly shocked. "A divorce? No, you can't! What will

any longer. My reputation doesn't matter

the type to be jealous, and she could tolerate

But when he

the table without a second thought, her heart had