Her Graceful War Song (Carissa Sinclair) novel Chapter 870

Helen often spoke of Sigmund. Sometimes she praised him, and other times, she complained. But whenever his name came up, she adopted the demeanor of a spoiled little girl, as if she had never really grown up.

She had been the most carefree concubine in the palace, occupying her position without having to navigate any intricate schemes. Even if there were plots against her, they never targeted her directly as Victoria always stood guard on her behalf.

Helen had been pampered growing up, then pampered again while having children. And now, she was pampered by her daughter-in-law. It seemed she never needed to worry about anything.

Yet, she still found trivial matters to fret over, like squabbles with Dakota or Josephine and wanting to compete with them. When she won, she kicked her legs in joy. When she lost, she puffed her cheeks in annoyance for a while. Eventually, those feelings would pass.

Even when Eleanor and Jessica schemed against her, she would only feel anger for a moment before brushing it aside. She wouldn't let negative emotions linger for long.

That was how most of her life had gone.

Now, she was eager to hold her grandchildren. Not that she truly wanted to—but because Dakota's son had a child, Helen felt the urge to have a grandchild too. If she was honest, though, did she really like children? They either cried incessantly or made loud, raucous noises. She hadn't yet discovered any redeeming qualities in them.

But whatever Dakota had, Helen wanted to have as well.

After listening to Helen talk about Sigmund for a while, Carissa returned to her room, where she found Qiana pressing a hot compress against Rafael's forehead. It seemed to be helping—the lump looked a bit smaller than before and was now turning into a blackened bruise.

Lulu brought in some pound cakes, and Rafael ate two pieces. Carissa then instructed them to start preparing dinner. After dinner, the two of them lingered together for a while. Carissa was finally able to look directly at his face without flinching.

Rafael reached out with a large hand, pulling her into his embrace, his gaze deep and intense. "You haven't paid me any attention for several nights now. You just crash into bed."

Carissa smiled and replied, "But your leg is fractured, so it's not very convenient."

His warm fingers brushed against her cheek, moving up to her brow. His eyes, dark and fathomless, brimmed with a natural desire.

"I've heard there are other positions that we can try."