Chapter 262

Most Sinclair family members were involved in business or had bought land to become landlords. How could they not understand the significance of Theodore's words? The rise or fall of one affected everyone. Even if the Duke of Northwatch's family didn't offer direct help, having a duke as a powerful ally meant that anyone looking to oppress them would have to think twice.

Because of this, everyone listened carefully to Theodore. The Sinclair family had always been relatively united. After the near-catastrophic events that had almost wiped out the Duke of Northwatch's family, there was no room for jealousy among them.

Theodore spoke at length, and Ryan took in every word. Previously, as a child, he had never been allowed to attend family meetings, let alone hear the patriarch speak about the responsibilities and legacy of their family.

A sense of duty towards his family began to grow within him. He still wasn't sure what his role would be, but he knew he couldn't afford to make mistakes that would bring shame to the Sinclair family and dishonor his late father and brothers.

By October, the weather had started to cool down. The Klein family sent over many garments for Ryan, along with some fine pelts. These days, whenever the Klein family got hold of something good, they made sure Ryan received it first.

Moreover, the Klein family offered to help organize the wedding. Lily reported back to Carissa, suggesting that while they might not need the help, it would be wise to accept their goodwill and allow them to assist in some small way. This would ease the Klein family's concerns.

Carissa agreed, instructing Lily to let the Klein family handle some minor tasks, but to ensure they didn’t spend any money on it.

News of Ryan's return quickly spread throughout the capital, and many people came to visit, bringing gifts for him. Even Heather sent some fine silks, saying they were for making clothes for Ryan.

Lulu was still upset over the time when Heather rejected the bridal gifts Carissa had sent. She remarked, “Why should we accept their fabric, my lady? It’s not like we’re in need.”

Carissa smiled. “If I’m not upset, why should you be? Besides, I still keep in touch with Leona. Let’s not make things difficult for her.”

“Not making things difficult for Lady Leona only puts you in a tough spot,” Lulu muttered, turning away.

Carissa’s voice softened. “No matter what, she’s still my mother’s sister. There’s nothing I can’t overlook.”

Lulu noted that Carissa referred to Heather as “mother’s sister” rather than “aunt,” understanding that Carissa still held some reservations about the past. So it was likely that Carissa chose to accept the gift to maintain peace between the two families.

After thinking it over, Lulu decided it was best not to dwell on it. After all, they were still relatives, and there hadn’t been any deep-seated hatred between them. So there was really no reason to hold a grudge. Accepting the gift wasn’t so bad, especially considering it was fine silk worth a significant amount of money.

With this thought, Lulu happily went off to store the fabric.

Carissa watched her go and chuckled, rubbing her temples. Lulu had a habit of getting worked up over the smallest things. If Carissa let herself be upset by everyone, she would never have peace.

Just then, Pearl hurriedly approached from the corridor. “My lady, Sebastian requests your presence in the side hall. He’s waiting for you.”

Carissa looked surprised. “Sebastian came himself? Isn’t it usually his apprentice, Rowan?”

Recently, it had been Rowan handling the acupuncture sessions, with Sebastian only occasionally stopping by to check Ryan’s progress and monitor the detoxification process.

“Yes, it’s Sebastian today,” Pearl confirmed. “He just finished examining Lord Ryan and asked for you in the side hall.”

Pearl had been assigned to assist with Ryan’s care. She was thorough in her work, which gave Carissa peace of mind.

“Alright, I’ll go right away,” Carissa replied, thinking this might be about Ryan’s leg treatment. Yesterday, Rowan mentioned that the detoxification was progressing smoothly and that Ryan’s health had visibly improved day by day.

When Carissa arrived at the side hall, she found Sebastian and Rowan already waiting. She quickly greeted Sebastian: “Sebastian, it’s good to see you. What brings you here personally today?” Sebastian sat comfortably in a chair, dressed in a narrow-sleeved long tunic and a black, cloud-patterned lightweight jacket. The temperature had dropped since it had rained a few days earlier.

He looked up at Carissa and smiled warmly. “You seem to be doing well. You look much better than the last time I saw you.”

“With all the nutritional meals I’m fed every day, how could I not be?” Carissa responded with a smile. Then she turned to Rowan and greeted him as well. “Thank you for your hard work, Rowan.”

“There’s no need for thanks, my lady,” Rowan replied. He was a young man in his twenties, of average height, with a round face and kind eyes.

Once seated, Carissa got straight to the point. “Sebastian, is it time to treat Ryan’s leg?”