Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1636

In the main hall, Melanie sat quietly in her chair. An old maid stood beside her, and on either side sat the younger ladies of the Sinclair family. The matchmaker and Barrett were seated at the far left.

Barrett's cheeks were flushed, and he gathered his courage to say, "Madam Sinclair, please rest assured. I swear on my life that I will take no other wives, nor will I ever fail Lady Sinclair."

Before Melanie could reply, hurried footsteps echoed nearby. Her eyes were now too weak to see clearly, so she could only make out a blurred figure. The person rushed forward and threw themselves into her arms, their voice choked with sobs.

"Mom!"

A sharp pain touched Melanie's heart. She ignored Barrett and the matchmaker, reaching out to stroke the girl's hair.

"Another bad dream?" she asked.

Carissa had been kept in the dark about her father's and brothers' deaths, only learning of it after returning from Meadow Ridge. The grief had caused her to faint several times, and even now, she had not yet recovered from the sorrow.

Carissa knelt on the floor, holding her mother tight. Even if it was just a dream, she wouldn't let go.

"My dear, please stop crying," Yvette said gently as she came forward. "We have guests."

Carissa lifted her head and looked at Yvette, her second sister-in-law, so full of life. Her other sisters-in-law were also present. They gazed at her with sorrow in their eyes, yet with such gentle warmth.

Tears fell freely as she whispered, "Everyone is here. It's so good... you're all here."

"Silly child." Melanie smiled, pulling her up by the hand. "You're here to discuss your marriage. How could your sisters-in-law not be present to advise you? Come now, don't be rude. Stand up."

hand. Her eyes still carried

am Barrett Warren.

the young man and was momentarily

mother and sisters-in-law remained unchanged as they had passed away young. But Barrett had died

been poor, and he needed support to walk.

truly living again or still trapped in

curtsied politely and said, "General Warren, please take

lost, glancing helplessly at the

the guests out,"

we agreed on this marriage. What has changed?"

looking at Melanie, who was just as

called

already agreed previously? She had

the match could be

them out!" Carissa

after all, the regent's princess consort who had held power for many years. What had

situation, she

decisive.

not worthy of their lady. Hearing

began to usher the guests to

think my