Chapter 619

Jacob devised an excuse, mentioning that they had spoken with Thomas. Lacking an official court appointment, Thomas's posting was uncertain. Rosalind, Trevor's cherished granddaughter, would be expected to accompany him to the border if they married, potentially spending three to five years away from the capital without visits. How could she endure such hardship in a remote outpost, away from her devoted family?

Everyone agreed this was compelling reasoning. Rosalind was exceptionally devoted to her elderly grandparents. Leaving them and the capital was unthinkable.

Carissa and Violet thus visited Trevor's residence the following day, as Rafael was returning to the Supreme Court.

Rosalind greeted them, dressed in a pale yellow blouse and matching pleated skirt. The skirt, intricately embroidered with silver butterflies, shimmered subtly, creating the illusion of fluttering wings.

"Greetings, Lady Carissa! I am Rosalind," she said, curtsying gracefully, displaying the poise of a noblewoman.

"There's no need for formalities, Ms. Young," Carissa replied with a smile, glancing at Violet, whose admiration was evident.

Violet couldn't help comparing herself. Her own etiquette training, under a strict governess wielding a ruler, had resulted in a stiff formality. Rosalind, however, moved with effortless elegance, exuding a calm grace that made Violet feel comparatively awkward. Rosalind's parents, present and warmly affectionate, undoubtedly contributed to her refined nature.

Carissa then stated, "To be frank, I spoke with Thomas yesterday. As he hasn't received his posting, his location is uncertain. He understands your virtue and devotion to your family, Ms. Young. Accompanying him to the border would entail hardship and separation. This would weigh heavily on his conscience."

A heavy silence followed. Rosalind remained silent, tears welling in her eyes. She loved Thomas, but couldn't abandon her family for years.

"I see," she finally whispered.

Carissa, sensing Rosalind's decision, sighed in relief. The matter was simpler than anticipated.

Rosalind then addressed Carissa: "Please tell him I've weighed the pros and cons and now feel unworthy of him."

Carissa blinked, momentarily confused. Was this a noble excuse, or did Rosalind genuinely mean it?

Carissa gently replied, "Ms. Young, marriage involves weighing advantages and disadvantages, but compatibility is crucial. It's not about worthiness, but about being a good match."

Rosalind responded softly, "You're right, Your Grace, but" Tears shimmered in her eyes. "I truly wish to marry him, and my reluctance to leave my family is genuine. One can't have everything. Having chosen my family, I can no longer speak of my feelings for him. I only wish for his happiness and peace."

A pang of sympathy struck Carissa, though she didn't fully understand. "But everyone would choose their family, wouldn't they?"

Violet remained silent, though her glance at Carissa implied otherwise. Some women, for the right man, would disregard family. Mildred, Violet's cousin, was a case in point.

Mildred sighed, her eyes glistening. "My dear, if you truly desire happiness, pursue it. As long as you accept the border's hardships and have no regrets, we support you."

Rosalind shook her head, tears and a smile directed at her grandmother. "No, I'll stay with you and Grandpa. I can't endure the border's hardships. You've spoiled me. I couldn't withstand the desolation and loneliness. I'd rather remain your cherished granddaughter, enjoying life's blessings here."