Provoking a Graceful Bloom Novel

Chapter 27 Selena's face showed no emotion , but her fists hidden under the table were clenched tightly . Though the two women in front of her looked gentle and kind , their intentions were anything but . A few careless whispers , and a young woman's entire life could be ruined . Had Selena been more fragile , she might have gone home and taken her own life . These people were murderers without blood on their hands . " Lena , I know how much it pains you to think of Fred with that vulgar girl .

That's why you acted so recklessly and made General Campbell sacrifice his merits for that annulment edict , " Ruth said , setting down her cup with a gentle smile . " Rest assured , I visited Hawthorne Estate several days ago . I had someone teach that vulgar girl a lesson . I had her beaten so badly that she was left bruised and broken . Consider it revenge on your behalf . , " Even if she still dares to stay at the estate , I'll make sure she suffers for it . There's no chance she'll have an easy life under my watch . " Taking Selena's Kand , Ruth patted her back gently .

" Lena , if you go to the king and admit you acted out of childish temper and beg him to revoke his edict , we will all pretend none of this ever happened . " You'll still be like a daughter to me , and Fred's esteemed princess consort , cherished by us all . Otherwise , those nasty rumors might drown not just you , but the entire Duke of Blackmoor's household . " She had a meaningful smile on her face as she continued , " Fortunately , the duke has been bedridden with illness and hasn't had the chance to hear those filthy rumors .

But if some careless servant foolishly talks nonsense in front of him , I fear it might upset him so much that his condition worsens . If that happens , I'm sure you'll be truly heartbroken . " Selena said nothing , but a sharp chill suddenly ran down her spine . Ruth let go of Selena's hand once she'd made her point , still smiling . " Lena , when you return , think it over carefully . It would be best to speak with the king soon about all this . " After a moment's thought , she added , " By the way , the king is hosting a grand celebration tonight for the Obsidian Monarch's victory .

There will be many guests . If you want to avoid whispers and pointed looks , why not clear up the matter with the king before the banquet ? " As long as the engagement is in place , what is there to fear from gossip ? After all , you'll be husband and wife soon , so everyone will understand . " Selena's face showed no emotion as she asked , " So , will Freya be attending tonight's celebration as well ? " Ruth couldn't guess what was on Selena's mind and assumed she was still sulking . She quickly smiled and said , " That girl is crude and uncouth .

There's no way I'd let her take part in such a grand event . " " But you said you wanted to help me get my revenge . If she doesn't come , how am I supposed to feel any better ? " Selena said calmly . Ruth's heart leapt at that . " You want her there ? That's easy enough . I'll send word to Hawthorne Estate right away and insist she attend tonight's banquet . " Since Selena had finally relented , Ruth felt relieved . " Don't worry , Lena . Tonight , I'll make sure you're satisfied . " " Very well . Then , I'll be waiting to see how it plays out , " Selena said , her smile tight and false .

The two women then passed the time with some light conversation over tea . After a while , Selena found an excuse to take her leave . 1/2 Chapter 22 +25 BONUS Watching her retreating figure , Anna whispered , " My lady , do you really think she will go to the king and ask him to withdraw his edict ? " Ruth smiled confidently . " She has nowhere left to turn , and I've given her a way out . Once I help her get her revenge tonight , do you think she'll refuse to do as I say ? " She showed no concern at all . " Mark my words .

It will be no more than three days before the king sends someone to notify me that the wedding will proceed as planned . "