Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Zoey listened to Evelyn and Viola for a while before speaking up.

"The reason we called you back isn't to discuss those matters. When Thomas died, the Farrell family gave you a divorce letter. It's understandable that you returned to our family, especially since you had no children and the Farrell family didn't want to tie you to them for life.

"Do you remember how you cried before returning to our family, vowing never to remarry? That's why the Farrell family gave you Thomas' pension and the two shops. Now that you've remarried, I think it's only fair to return the pension to them. As for the two shops, we should convert their value into silver coins and return them. What do you think?"

Viola's mind was still numb from shock. Upon hearing Zoey's words, she instinctively shook her head.

"No! Why should I return them? I haven't done anything wrong. If he didn't die, why didn't he tell me? Even though I returned to my family, I remained loyal for several years before remarrying."

"You won't have to provide the money. Mother and I will cover it for you," Zoey said, raising her voice. "But you need to show some effort. This can't just be on me and Mother."

"How am I supposed to? I'm already a part of the Warren family. Besides, I've waited for him all these years..."

Zoey's expression hardened. "Enough with that. What do you mean, you've waited for him? You returned to our family less than a month after he died! Is that what you mean by you were waiting for him all this time? You didn't settle down because you didn't find someone suitable. You were just as eager to remarry as anyone, and after meeting several prospects, you knew exactly why it didn't happen. Others might not know the truth, but we do."

Viola retorted sharply, "So I should have stayed single for life? Have you ever seen a man who doesn't remarry after losing his wife? And don't men also take their wives' dowries when they're no longer together? Why the double standard?"

didn't. But you shouldn't have made that vow saying you'd never remarry. That made the Farrell family pity you

time, I was Thomas' wife! Wasn't it right for

only ones here now, and there are no servants present. There are some things I don't want to spell out too clearly, but all of us understand the situation. Do I need to repeat myself? Fine. You have

softly, "Viola,

yourself, but you should at least show some effort. After all, the Farrell family allowed you to return home. Also, Madam Alice treated you as

the right to judge my decisions?"

just a merchant's daughter, but

If I decide to return it, it will be because of

to Viola's tone and didn't bother to argue. Engaging with Viola only led

Zoey didn't indulge

curb that attitude of yours? Even

has

than you. Do I need to remind you

for many years,