Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1009

There was no need for Carissa or Violet to dig into Jessica's situation.

For many years, Luke had been old friends with Giles, the head steward of Ironridge Estate. He met Giles for a meal the following day, and the whole situation became clear.

It turned out that the previous year, the Marquis of Ironridge had taken a new concubine. Her name was Flora Crawford. Her father was a scholar, and she herself was well-read. She was initially engaged, but her fiancé tragically died two years ago in an accident, earning her the reputation of being a "widow-maker." She had been ridiculed ever since.

Somehow, she crossed paths with Leopold, who took a liking to her and made her his concubine.

According to Giles, the reason Leopold had taken Flora in was partly to support the management of the household. Emma had been ill for a long time and had almost died last winter. It wasn't until the weather warmed that she started recovering.

Flora was skilled in managing the household. Since her arrival, she had been assisting Margaret in overseeing the internal affairs of the estate, which the old lady greatly appreciated.

It was clear that Jessica didn't like Flora. She had been subtly tormenting her in both overt and covert ways. Margaret had berated her several times, and with the treason case involving Eleanor, Jessica had cooled down somewhat.

Three months ago, Flora had become pregnant. Due to severe morning sickness, she could hardly eat. The only thing she could stomach were the light dishes her mom used to make. Margaret had once been pregnant herself, and she knew how much a woman could miss her family during such a time. She invited Flora's mom, Barbara, to stay with them.

that Jessica had been cruel to Flora, Barbara reprimanded her a few times. With no outlet for her anger, Jessica

the Marquis

in hearing about them. Get to the point-how did Jessica end up being cast out? She didn't do something to harm Flora's baby,

tonics, and Madam Barbara had developed a cough during her stay there. Madam Margaret had a physician prescribe medicine for Madam Barbara,

which Lady Jessica had added a laxative to. She already had a weak constitution, and the medicine caused

Jessica. She admitted to it, claiming she didn't intend to harm Lady Flora's child but only wanted to get back at Madam

and Carissa exchanged

was gone? Was

unclear, but either way, the child was lost and Lady Flora's health was ruined. The physician said it would be very difficult for her to conceive again,"

of laxative was it? It sounds so severe,"

say. Madam Margaret investigated the

days after this incident, Lady Jessica pushed Lady Serena into a lake. The Marquis of Ironridge was furious

grounds of attempting to harm the child and mistreating a concubine?" Violet

stated it was for

she has money and shops, she shouldn't