Her Graceful War Song (Carissa Sinclair) novel Chapter 869

Carissa hurried back inside, soothing Helen and sending her on her way.

Even after stepping outside, Helen continued, "It's true! You're married now, so what's there to be shy about? When you were younger, you used to tell me everything! I still remember the time a mosquito bit you down there, and you stripped off your pants so I could apply medicine…"

"Mom!" Rafael's roar echoed through the room.

Carissa quickly called for Violet to take over leading Helen away, and instructed Qiana and Sydney to prepare hot water. Carissa would wash Rafael's hair herself.

Since he couldn't soak in the hot springs, he sat in the bath chamber, leaning forward as Carissa washed his hair while trying to avoid getting his feet wet. Though he felt a bit useless, the sensation of her fingers massaging his scalp and working through his hair brought a warm, sweet happiness amid the embarrassment.

He comforted himself with the thought that if it weren't for this injury, he wouldn't be receiving such special treatment. The last time he was hurt, Dylan had been the one helping him.

Once his hair was clean, Carissa dried it off.

After a moment, Rafael muttered, "Mom's talking nonsense. You shouldn't listen to her."

"Okay." Carissa rubbed a thick towel through his hair. "I barely remember what she said."

He continued to sound sullen as he added, "You must be disappointed. You were so excited when I told you last night, but you ended up not seeing anything."

Carissa chuckled softly. "Disappointed? Not at all! I grew up in Meadow Ridge and have always loved climbing mountains. Plus, don't you think the snowy peaks were breathtaking? And being with you, even if we just sat quietly and chatted, I'd be happy."

With no expectations, how could there be disappointment? From the moment he mentioned climbing the mountain, she knew that the only thing to look forward to today was the meal at Glimmering Tower.

"Really? You'd be happy just being with me?"

Rafael lifted his gaze to meet hers, but Carissa quickly averted her eyes, trying to avoid his gaze. She was afraid that seeing the swollen bump on his forehead would make her laugh, especially when paired with his pitiful expression.

In truth, Dylan was a bit innocent in all this—it was hard not to laugh.

"Of course." Carissa moved behind him to dry his hair, biting back a smile.

"You didn't look me in the eye when you said that."