Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1133

Barrett snapped at Serena to leave, then instructed Tara to dismiss all the servants, allowing only his father and older brother to remain in the room.

Lately, Barrett had been drinking more than usual. His complexion appeared sallow and haggard. His hair was a mess, like wild grass growing unchecked. His beard, likely only shaved a few days ago, had already grown out in a thin, patchy circle around his pale, cracked lips. To any onlooker, he resembled a wild, mangy dog.

His clothes were wrinkled, and the lingering smell of alcohol on him was unmistakable.

Zoey couldn't help but think back to the day when Barrett had married Viola. Though he wasn't exactly brimming with youthful vigor, he had been a handsome and gallant young man. Yet now, he was reduced to such a pitiable state.

He resembled a flower that had withered too soon—its once vibrant bloom now faded, its countenance heavy with ruin.

He remained silent, and it was Jonathan who spoke first.

"Mrs. Prince, word has spread far and wide that Viola had already committed a grave mistake when she was part of the Farrell family. The rumors are rampant, and it's become impossible to maintain any peace. Though our family may not be what it once was, we cannot tolerate a woman who brings disgrace upon her marriage," he said.

Zoey had expected this. She hadn't come here to plead with Barrett to not divorce Viola.

Instead, she asked only one question, "I won't press on other matters, but may I ask if it's possible to delay the divorce until next year?"

"You're quite the strategist, Mrs. Prince," Jonathan replied, his voice carrying the rare weight of paternal authority. "If we delay the divorce until next year, our family's reputation will be ruined beyond repair. Besides, hasn't she already been asking for a divorce? Why not fulfill her wish?

"They've been at odds since their marriage, without a moment of peace. Even when she finally conceived, the child was lost. Clearly, they were never meant to be together. Why force it any longer?"

Jonathan was once a reckless man who feared nothing, but had become more calculating with age. When it came to matters of family honor and moral standing, he was uncompromising.