Chapter 412 +25 BONUS
When Rafael returned from work, Carissa updated him on the matter. After removing his cloak and handing it to a servant, Rafael sat down and sipped a cup of coffee. After a moment of contemplation, he said, “Logan is a typical wealthy young man—fond of pleasure and indulgence. He and Kiera do seem to share… similar interests.”
“In a few days, I expect the Quinton family will come to finalize the betrothal. My suggestion is to follow the usual marriage customs. I’ve spoken with Kiera, and she enjoys these traditional ceremonies,” said Carissa.
“Have her marriage arranged according to her preferences. I’m her brother. I’ve faced countless dangers on the battlefield, and it’s all been to ensure that she and my mother can live freely as they please.”
He took Carissa’s hand and guided her to sit beside him, his eyes gentle. “Originally, I wanted to say that to you, but it seems I don’t really have the right to. Your father’s and brothers’ military achievements, and your own, should be more than enough to secure a comfortable life for you.”
Carissa smiled. “The words you speak bring me happiness.”
His eyes shifted with emotion. “Really? Then, let me be honest with you. When I first went to the Southern Frontier, my sole intention was to reclaim the region and then return to marry you.”
He gently pulled her onto his lap. Seeing this, the servants… (The following text is unintelligible and needs to be rewritten or clarified).
"Alright. Most of the staff in the estate are new, with some coming from the palace with me. Although they’re young, they are considered long-time members of the household. Luke also accompanied me from the palace and has been with me for many years, so he is absolutely trustworthy. You can manage the rest as you see fit.
“As for my mother, she has always liked to sleep in. Don’t go to her too early to greet her. You should sleep in a little yourself.”
Carissa smiled. “I’ve already greeted her and paid my respects once since we got married. After that, she has been coming to have breakfast with me. You leave early, so you might not know about that.”
Rafael was quite surprised. “Really?”
He knew that his mother and Carissa had a good relationship now, but he hadn’t expected it to have progressed to the point where Carissa didn’t need to formally greet her, and that Helen even came to seek her out personally.
He couldn’t help but smile. “The peaceful interactions between you two is something I hadn’t anticipated.”
“I didn’t expect it either,” Carissa said with a laugh.
Since Rafael had returned early today, he planned to have a meal with everyone. However, upon hearing of this, Helen claimed she wasn’t feeling well and requested that her meal be brought to her room.
Rafael thought she might truly be unwell and was about to visit her when Carissa stopped him. (The following text is unintelligible and needs to be rewritten or clarified).
The final section of the text is severely garbled and requires significant editing or rewriting to be understandable. Please provide a corrected version of that section.