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."

Guard headquarters. Gerald hadn't eaten or drunk anything all day. By nightfall, a high fever struck him. Despite the heat of two charcoal stoves and the weight of two

to call in any outside physicians, so he could only

from Salvador and had his salary docked for a year on top of his original punishment. After leaving the palace, he

would be a disaster for the Quinton family. The only thing he

his heart, Malcolm felt torn toward Carissa-grateful yet resentful. Grateful that she continued to shield the Quinton family from disgrace, but resentful that she hadn't warned him sooner. But he couldn't voice this resentment,

had already

gentlemen's retreat so soon after just

strong, too quickly.

Carissa wouldn't allow anyone near him except for Malcolm and the household physician. Naturally, she insisted on staying, wanting to

if he was longing for something he could never have, no matter how hard he tried. They fed him medicine, but by midnight, his fever still showed no sign

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

for Malcolm to step outside, then suggested, "I think we should call for Sebastian, or perhaps take

of exhaustion heavy on him. He

calling for Sebastian meant that more people would be in the know. Taking Gerald back to the estate was an option, but it had its complications. Salvador could be appeased, but how could