Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1133

Barrett snapped at Serena to leave, then instructed Tara to dismiss all the servants, allowing only his father and older brother to remain in the room.

Lately, Barrett had been drinking more than usual. His complexion appeared sallow and haggard. His hair was a mess, like wild grass growing unchecked. His beard, likely only shaved a few days ago, had already grown out in a thin, patchy circle around his pale, cracked lips. To any onlooker, he resembled a wild, mangy dog.

His clothes were wrinkled, and the lingering smell of alcohol on him was unmistakable.

Zoey couldn't help but think back to the day when Barrett had married Viola. Though he wasn't exactly brimming with youthful vigor, he had been a handsome and gallant young man. Yet now, he was reduced to such a pitiable state.

He resembled a flower that had withered too soon-its once vibrant bloom now faded, its countenance heavy with ruin.

He remained silent, and it was Jonathan who spoke first.

"Mrs. Prince, word has spread far and wide that Viola had already committed a grave mistake when she was part of the Farrell family. The rumors are rampant, and it's become impossible to maintain any peace. Though our family may not be what it once was, we cannot tolerate a woman who brings disgrace upon her marriage," he said.

expected this. She hadn't come here to

only one question, "I won't press on other matters, but may I ask if it's possible to delay the divorce until next

voice carrying the rare weight of paternal authority. "If we delay the divorce until next year, our family's reputation will be ruined beyond repair. Besides, hasn't she already been

without a moment of peace. Even when she finally conceived, the child was lost. Clearly, they were never

once a reckless man who feared nothing, but had become more calculating with age. When it came to

they kept such a wife in their

won't touch her dowry. Whatever she brought with her, she can take back.

did sound reasonable, didn't

withholding half of Carissa's dowry when they cast her out in the past. But of course, she didn't ask that. Instead, Zoey directed her next words to Barrett, who had been silent all this time, with Jonathan speaking on

aim for the end of the

physician said it was due to a previous

Jonathan gasped. "Why didn't you say anything sooner? You