Chapter 443 +25 BONUS
Viola was constantly preoccupied with the affairs of the estate and family, dipping into her own funds to cover shortfalls. She was so exhausted each day that she felt her back might break the moment she lay down. Meanwhile, Carissa seemed to live a carefree and happy life, fueling Viola's resentment.
Lost in thought, Viola overheard Serena say, "I heard Lady Helen publicly stated she disliked Carissa. Considering their strained relationship, Lady Helen might impose rules on Carissa at the birthday banquet. Given Carissa's current temperament, she might make a scene."
Viola recalled Carissa's haughty words from their carriage ride. She eagerly anticipated Helen making things difficult for Carissa. But without an invitation, how could she attend?
Then, she remembered her family. With her brother commanding the Hell Monarch Army and the banquet at the Hell Monarch Estate, surely they would receive an invitation.
With that in mind, after administering Rebecca's medication, Viola excused herself, claiming her mother was unwell. Returning home, she confirmed they had received an invitation.
"Mom," Viola declared, "take me with you that day."
Evelyn was surprised. "You're married into the Warren family. It wouldn't be proper for me to bring you."
"Who cares if it's proper? It's just a birthday banquet. Say I'm accompanying you because my sister-in-law's health isn't great," Viola insisted.
"What would you even do there?" Evelyn asked.
Evelyn looked at her daughter, noticing Viola's increasing impatience since her marriage.
"Nothing special. I just want to chat with the other ladies," Viola said, shaking her mother's arm. "Mom, since marrying into the Warren family, our fortunes have declined. My husband's been demoted to a ninth-rank official; who would invite me without my natal family's influence? I need to network with noble ladies to plan for my husband's future."
She continued, "They invited the Jadehill Marquess's matriarch. You know Aurora offended her. Although she apologized and settled the matter, the matriarch might still hold a grudge. As Barrett's primary wife, I should apologize. The Jadehill family will respect my brother and accept it."
Unaware of the recent friction between her daughter and Carissa, Evelyn found Viola's reasoning sound.
"Since you want to go, there's no need to exclude your sister-in-law. She should visit the Hell Monarch's princess consort. Even though your brother commands the troops, those soldiers have followed the Hell Monarch through thick and thin. Their unit is still called the Hell Monarch Army."
Relieved, Viola smiled at her mother's agreement. "Yes, my sister-in-law should go too."
Evelyn added, "It's good for you to go. We previously asked Lady Carissa about your husband, and she informed us of many things. We should thank her in person."
"You're right, Mom," Viola replied distractedly.
"Why do you look so pale?" Evelyn examined her daughter's face, frowning. "Haven't you been resting well? How are they treating you?"
Viola perked up. "They treat me very well. My mother-in-law is understanding, my husband respects me, and my father-in-law and elder brother-in-law are kind. Only my younger sister-in-law is a bit arrogant, but she hasn't caused me any trouble."
"And what about your co-wife, Aurora?" the old lady asked.
"We usually keep to ourselves. But there was that incident where she offended the Jadehill Marquess's matriarch, and people threw dung at our estate. We had a few words, but it was settled amicably," Viola replied.
Evelyn sighed. "Recently, rumors circulated in the capital that she was captured and defiled. I don't know if it's true, but it would be a huge embarrassment for the Warren family."
"Where there's smoke, there's fire. In any case, my husband doesn't care for her. Since marrying me, he's rarely visited her and almost never stays overnight," Viola said.
Evelyn nodded, somewhat comforted. "That's good. It's good that your husband is considerate. You should also work hard and give their family an heir as soon as possible."