Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Carissa had her own list of reminders for Rafael-to be careful on the road, to stay alert, and most importantly, if he came across any "pretty flowers" along the way, to look but not bring them back. The hint of jealousy in her tone made Rafael's heart soar with joy. As he swung himself onto his horse, he flashed a grin and swore his loyalty.

"I won't even spare a glance," he promised.

However, Travis looked puzzled for a moment, then asked, "What flowers could you possibly find on the road in the middle of winter? Even if there are any, they're likely being well-tended by someone. How could anyone just pick them? You can look, but why wouldn't you look?"

His confusion made both Jacob and Kyle chuckle.

Violet snorted and teased, "Poor fool, stop talking! You're completely missing the point. You're talking about one thing when they're talking about something completely different." Travis scratched his chin, deep in thought. He still couldn't understand it, even when Dylan called out for departure.

As soon as Rafael was on his horse, Helen turned and headed back into the house. The cold wind at the gate was unbearable, making her shiver. It was enough to see her son get on his horse. There was no need to stand there in the wind, especially since he wasn't even looking back at her.

Jacob, Lily, and Carissa's other attendants also followed Helen back in. Carissa and Violet remained, watching as the group rode slowly away.

Violet nudged Carissa's shoulder lightly. "Are you going to miss him?"

"A little," Carissa admitted, her gaze lingering until they were out of sight.

of emptiness

were both busy after their marriage, they had spent nearly every night together, and at least one moment of the day could always be theirs. Now, it would be two months stretched ahead with no chance of seeing him. "Two months... feels

head. "Long? It's only two months, not two

freedom while it lasts. It's rare to not have him around. Do what you want-I'm

Isaac that there are a few nice places in the capital. I've always wanted to check them

٢.٨

ve

Now's the perfect time-he won't be back for at least two months, so

appropriate to visit when Raf is

1.n

mind, I'm

in the mood

mysterious smile. "It's a gentlemen's retreat, a place with

stopped in her tracks. "You've been there? Did Isaac take you? Where

just told me about it.

not curious, and I don't want to go," Carissa replied sharply. "Why is Isaac telling