Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1242

The trio listened as the common folk continued to praise Carissa. They spoke of her efforts in establishing Gracewood Women's Academy and Skye Embroidery, and how she had now even cleaned up such a filthy place. She was truly a remarkable woman.

Of course, where there was praise, there was also criticism. Some whispered that a woman's place was in the home, managing the household as well as bearing children and raising them.

"Lady Carissa has been married for so long, yet she hasn't even had a child. She's neglected her proper duties as a wife, and worse, she's doing a man's work."

Violet, having grown used to such talk, merely rolled her eyes. But Cynthia and Bun, ever protective of their friend, were quick to react. They were about to step forward to argue when Violet caught them by the

arm.

With a smile, she said, "Let them talk. Don't waste your breath. It's nothing to lose sleep over. If we engage, we'll only cause Cari more trouble. Besides, there are plenty of people who will defend her. She has quite a following."

And sure enough, voices soon rose in defense of Carissa.

Feeling reassured, Cynthia murmured, "Cari is only growing more remarkable."

eaten or drunk anything all day. By nightfall, a high fever struck him.

and was at a loss. He was too afraid to call in any outside physicians, so he

salary docked for a year on top of his original punishment. After leaving the palace, he was relentlessly focused on how to fix the situation, and

wildfire only blocked by a thin cloth. Whether that cloth was burned through or set alight, it would be a disaster for the Quinton family. The only thing he could be thankful for

disgrace, but resentful that she hadn't warned him sooner. But he couldn't voice this resentment, especially since Kylie had originally opposed Gracewood Women's Academy. Why should Carissa tell

already said

would make another trip to the gentlemen's retreat so soon after just having been there. Maybe this was just bound to happen; the

strong, too quickly.

Gerald rambled incoherently. Carissa wouldn't allow anyone near him except for Malcolm and the household physician. Naturally, she insisted on staying, wanting to know exactly how Gerald was

was as if he was longing for something he could never have, no matter how hard he tried. They fed him medicine, but

physician explained that Gerald's condition was brought on by the strain of emotional turmoil-an anxious heart, combined with two days without food or drink, had finally overwhelmed him. Simply put, it was his mind that had faltered first. The arrest had been a deep humiliation for him, something he could

condition hadn't improved, and the household physician shook his head in dismay. Carissa called for Malcolm to step outside, then suggested, "I think we should call for Sebastian, or perhaps take Lord Gerald back

his hands pressed over his face, the weight of exhaustion heavy on him. He hadn't

to the estate was an option, but it had its complications. Salvador could