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.

emptiness washed over

always be theirs. Now, it would be two months stretched ahead with no chance of seeing him. "Two months... feels so long," she lamented with a

her head. "Long? It's only two months,

Carissa's shoulders as they walked back inside. "You should enjoy your freedom while it lasts. It's rare to not have him around. Do what you want-I'm planning to take you

that there are a few nice places in the capital.

٢.٨

ve

come. Now's the perfect time-he won't be back for at

to visit when Raf is around? Are they better than Glimmering Tower?" Carissa waved

1.n

mind,

in the mood

broke into a mysterious smile. "It's a gentlemen's retreat, a

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

her head. "He didn't take me, he just told me about it. Aren't you curious about this

I don't want to go," Carissa replied sharply. "Why is Isaac telling you about