Chapter 669 (+25 Bonus)

Jacob's voice cracked with sorrow. "The loss of my sister devastated our family. My mother wept day and night, and my father resigned his post, taking two servants with him to search for her. He returned home only once every two years. My grandfather held the family together, and even after my grandmother's death, my father continued his search. He didn't return until two years after her passing—ten years after she disappeared—and then he finally gave up."

The group listened, their hearts aching. The pain of losing a child was a wound too deep to contemplate.

"From the day my sister vanished, joy left our lives. For the first two years, I brought my grandfather and mother to the capital, as their health was failing. My father refused to leave Cloud County. He clung to hope, believing she would one day remember her home and return, and that someone would always be waiting for her.

"Over the years, I haven't given up either. I've employed people from the Hell Monarch Estate to help search. The reason I worked so hard for His Highness was because he allowed me to use his people in the search. Even knowing the chances were slim, not searching felt worse. I had to do something, anything, even if pointless, to ease my mind."

Kyle, having dozed off in his chair, had rushed from Meadow Ridge and begun painting without even a sip of water; he was utterly exhausted. Even in his half-asleep state, he absorbed Jacob's story. He had traveled extensively and witnessed countless tragedies; he wasn't numb to suffering. He sensed, however, that Darin was highly likely to be Jacob's sister. He trusted that one of his many paintings must closely resemble the current Jaina, allowing him to relax and sleep peacefully.

After listening to Jacob, Violet wiped away her tears and sent someone to the Farrell family. She asked Opal to deliver an invitation to the Marquis of Grovehill's family, inviting Lisette to Glimmering Tower for tea and to enjoy the riverside scenery the following day.

Gemma received the invitation and went to see Darin. Thanks to Eleanor's instructions, the Kingsley family treated Darin with great courtesy. However, Gemma understood Darin was merely a pawn in their game, and her politeness was distant.

"I believe the Farrell family wishes to get to know you better," Gemma stated. "After all, you're not from the capital, and it's difficult for them to assess your character without interacting with you. They can only consider this marriage if they understand what kind of person you are."

Darin showed little emotion and asked, "So, do you think I should go?"

Gemma replied coolly, "Why shouldn't you? I'll send someone to accompany you and keep you on track. Just remember, don't speak out of turn. The more you say, the more mistakes you'll make. Keep your words few, and you won't err. Absolutely avoid giving anyone reason to find fault.

"The Farrell family is currently rising in prominence, and many noble ladies in the capital yearn to marry into their family. If Thomas didn't prefer someone a bit older, you wouldn't even have this opportunity. This is a fortunate chance you must seize."

Chapter 669 (+25 Bonus)

Darin took the invitation and smiled bitterly. "Fortune? You know very well why I'm marrying him. I'm not seeking a life of luxury."

Gemma frowned. "How can it not be fortunate? You'll be his wife once married. You simply need to ensure he serves Grand Princess Eleanor."

Darin's tone soured. "But Grand Princess Eleanor has also said that if I can't win him over, I'll have to take his life."

Gemma replied, "With your intelligence, you'll surely persuade him. Always think positively. Don't dwell on the worst-case scenario. If he serves Grand Princess Eleanor, won't you and your husband enjoy wealth and honor in the future?"

She patted Darin's shoulder. "It's settled, then. Tomorrow, I'll ensure you're beautifully dressed. Always remember your identity as a young lady from the Sandford family—don't let any hint of your humble background show."

After finishing, Gemma stood and left. Outside, she pulled out a handkerchief, wiped her hands, and tossed it disdainfully to a maid.

"Tamara, you'll go with her tomorrow. Keep a close watch on her. Don't let her make any mistakes," Gemma ordered.

Tamara caught the handkerchief, holding it by a corner. "Understood, Madam Gemma!"