Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1613

When husband and wife now spoke of the past, they felt nothing but fondness between them. Especially Carissa, who once thought their marriage had been forced upon her.

Who could have imagined it would turn out so happy? Truly, the ways of the world were hard to predict.

Just then, someone came rushing in like a whirlwind. Before anyone could see clearly, she had already thrown herself into Rafael's arms.

"Dad, I adore the coming-of-age gift you gave me! Thank you so much! You're the best!" she exclaimed in a voice bright with joy and excitement.

"Still so impulsive? You're a young lady now, you ought to carry yourself with more grace," Rafael said.

Despite his words, there was nothing but warmth in his gaze. He gently fixed the hairpin in his daughter's hair as he added, "And you didn't like the ruby set? Your mother chose that herself with great care."

"I love it! I love everything!" Elise replied sweetly, her whole face lighting up with delight.

Rafael looked at her smiling face, and for a moment, it felt like a dream. The older Elise grew, the more she looked like her mother. When he first saw Carissa at Meadow Ridge, she used to smile just like that—bright and full of spirit.

But afterward, he rarely saw her smile that way. Even when she seemed glad, it was only a faint smile, as if joy never truly reached her heart. Thankfully, she had improved now. From time to time, she did laugh aloud, openly happy. Perhaps, with time, dust had settled over the wounds in her heart, softening them from view.

But even if hidden, those wounds would always be there. No feeling—no matter how deep—could make her whole again. Not a husband, nor a friend, nor even a daughter or a nephew could replace one's parents or elder brothers.

Whenever Rafael thought of that, his heart ached for Carissa.

"Dad? Why are you staring off into the distance?" Elise asked.

Rafael gathered his thoughts and told her to sit properly. Then, he said, "Your mother and I were just speaking of your marriage. We'd like to hear what you think about it."

Startled, her eyes widened. "Are we so poor now that you must sell me off? Why such a hurry?"

"What nonsense is that? Who's selling you?" Rafael said with a frown. "Marriage isn't selling you off. And your mother and I were only speaking in passing. We meant to ask your thoughts, not send you off at once. If you're willing, we might take two or three years to find a suitable match."

"I'm not willing, not at all," Elise said quickly, shaking her head. "I've no wish to marry so soon."

"Is it that you don't wish to marry yet, or that you don't wish to marry at all?" Carissa asked gently.

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