Her Graceful War Song

Rafael's stubbornness flared up again. He gently pushed his mother aside, then grabbed Carissa by the wrist.

"I just heard you mention getting me a concubine. Come with me. I'll deal with you in our room."

With that, he dragged Carissa out of the room.

Helen was stunned, unable to comprehend what was happening.

Wasn't it just a casual mention? Her son was truly out of his mind!

"Gillian, go and check on them immediately!" Helen said urgently. "We can't have him hurting her. How am I going to explain this to my sister? She dotes on Carissa the most!"

Gillian sighed. "How can I go? You wanted to arrange concubines for Prince Rafael yourself after listening to Grand Princess Eleanor and Lady Dakota. If I go now, it might only provoke His Highness further. Lady Carissa seems resilient enough..."

"Nonsense! Which husband beats their wife after marrying her? If you don't go, I will!"

Gillian tried to stop her. "Alright, I'll go get Mr. York. His Highness listens to him the most."

"Quickly!" Helen slammed the table in frustration.

The thought of Carissa's beautiful face getting hurt-oh, how painful it was just to imagine!

As Rafael dragged Carissa out of Helen's courtyard, he suddenly lifted her in his arms. Carissa let out a scream, which was loud enough to make Helen feel dizzy.

Oh god, had Rafael really hit Carissa?!

Helen pushed Gillian urgently. "Why are you still here? Hurry!"

Gillian hobbled outside, but they were already gone. Of course, she had to wander around the courtyard a bit to see if she could find them.

Alas, Helen didn't realize Rafael's intentions.Content protected by Nôv/el(D)rama.Org.

This was deliberate—to show that the matter of concubines should not be mentioned within the residence. It wasn't because of Carissa's jealousy, but rather because he forbade it.

Carissa was carried back to her bedroom. Lulu and the others giggled as they scampered out. It looked like they wouldn't be needed tonight.

Rafael set Carissa down on the table, wrapping his arms around her waist with a playful grin. "So, how was my performance tonight?"

"Only superficial, good enough to deceive Mother," Carissa said as she rested her head against his chest, reflecting on Helen's anxious expression.

It was clear the older woman was genuinely worried about her getting hurt. Although Helen was easily swayed and prone to being used by others, her heart was genuinely large and soft.

"As long as it worked on her, that's what matters. But my mother... Don't

expect her to be sharp like the

others. She needs someone to

protect her, or she'll end up getting tricked."

Carissa tilted her head. "Well, it's better than playing mind games with me."

He brushed his lips against hers. "She's easily swayed by others, but after the scene I made tonight, I think she'll be too scared to bring it up again for at least a year or two." Carissa laughed. "She's probably terrified."

Terrified was right-Lulu couldn't help but report, "Gillian's still pacing around the courtyard."

Carissa laughed softly, pushing Rafael away and jumping down from the table. "Alright, go tell Gillian that Rafael has calmed down and that she should go back and inform Mother." "Understood!" Lulu hesitated for a moment at the door. "We have hot water ready. If you need any further assistance, the servants are waiting outside."

Carissa pretended not to notice the teasing glint in Lulu's eyes. "No need for further assistance. You all should get some rest."

"Yes, Your Grace!" Lulu withdrew and instructed everyone to leave, skipping the usual dressing routine.

The servants left happily. Although everyone was full, there were still many snacks and dishes left in the kitchen.

Additionally, Jacob followed Carissa's instructions and rewarded the household staff. Although it was just a small reward, it added a touch of festive cheer.