Estella stared right at Lucian after she was done talking.Estella stared right at Lucian after she was done talking. She could sense Roxanne, Archie, and Benny’s aversion toward Lucian.Estella had attributed their aversion to Lucian.She had been honest with Lucian in hopes that he would reflect upon himself and treat Roxanne, Archie, and Benny better so that they would warm up to Lucian.Maybe Roxanne would decide to stay then.At the thought that Roxanne would migrate overseas, the little girl turned wistful.Lucian’s mood took a roller coaster at his daughter’s remarks.Roxanne had said the very same thing.“Did she say that to Essie too? Is that why Essie came back sulking?” he wondered.Lucian wanted his questions answered. Hence, he asked, “Did Ms. Jarvis tell you that she doesn’t like me in the afternoon?”Estella shook her head.Somehow, Lucian heaved a sigh of relief when Estella shook her head. He knew that Estella had only made her own deduction after observing the way R
After some thought, Aubree pulled out her phone and called Sonya.After some thought, Aubree pulled out her phone and called Sonya. It did not take long before Sonya answered the call. “Is something wrong, Aubree?”“Mrs. Farwell, can you please come over? My arm hurts so bad, and I’m scared…” Aubree’s voice was full of unease.“Just give me a moment. I’ll be right over,” promised Sonya immediately.With that, the woman hurriedly got changed before striding out the door.Only after getting into her car did Sonya begin to wonder why Aubree called her if Lucian was with the young woman.“What about Lucian? Isn’t he with you?” inquired Sonya curiously.“I’m not sure where he is either. Maybe he’s working overtime. I didn’t call him because I didn’t want to disturb him. My parents weren’t answering my calls, so I had no choice but to trouble you.” There was a hint of sadness in Aubree’s voice.Hence, Sonya quickly comforted the young woman. “It’s okay. You only got hurt because of me, so
A hint of displeasure flashed across Sonya’s eyes at Aubree’s concern for Estella and at the thought of Lucian rejecting her suggestion.A hint of displeasure flashed across Sonya’s eyes at Aubree’s concern for Estella and at the thought of Lucian rejecting her suggestion. If her son had heeded her words over the years to have Estella spend time with Aubree, Estella might not be so attached to Roxanne, given Aubree’s fondness for Estella.Estella, too, would have no need for Roxanne.Aubree made a remorseful face. “To be honest, I’m still slightly envious of Ms. Jarvis and how she gained Essie’s favor so quickly. It would be nice if Essie were that fond of me.”Aubree glanced slyly at Sonya, who frowned at those words.“What nonsense!” she snapped. “If you are to become Essie’s mother, it’s only a matter of time before she becomes fond of you. Who does that woman think she is, anyway? I’ve told her I will make her life in Horington difficult if she tries to contact Lucian and Essie a
As she had fallen asleep late the night before, Roxanne slept deeply but was awoken by her phone ringing early the following morning.As she had fallen asleep late the night before, Roxanne slept deeply but was awoken by her phone ringing early the following morning. Unable to marshal her thoughts into coherence immediately upon waking up, she reached out blindly around her pillow for a long time before locating the source of the noise.Upon obtaining her phone and squinting at the screen, Roxanne answered groggily.Colby sounded very anxious on the other end. “Something’s happened, Dr. Jarvis.”Wide awake suddenly, Roxanne sat bolt upright. “What is it?” she asked hoarsely.“A shipment of medicinal herb supplies we expected to receive this morning is still nowhere to be seen.” Colby looked grave.The medicinal herb supplier the research institute partnered with was usually very punctual in delivering their supply.If a morning delivery had been promised, the research institute would
After a series of calls back and forth, the only knowledge the pair learned was how the partners truly felt and that somebody was complicating matters for them from the shadows.After a series of calls back and forth, the only knowledge the pair learned was how the partners truly felt and that somebody was complicating matters for them from the shadows. However, no medical supplies was sent to the research until then.In a panic, Roxanne thought of Larry as she remembered him mentioning during their last medical conference that he wished to establish himself in Chanaea and would likely stay in Horington.With his reputation in the medical world and the standing of the Morrison family in Horington, Larry would undoubtedly have connections.A dash of hope lifted Roxanne’s spirits by that thought. “I’m going to call a friend,” she said to Colby, before getting her phone to give Larry a call.The other end picked up almost immediately. “What can I do for you, Roxanne?” came Larry’s deep
Remembering their last meeting at the coffee shop, Sonya’s message was obvious. There would be consequences if she were to make any further contact with Lucian. I hadn’t actually met up with that man since that time.Roxanne had, in actuality, went as far as to make plans to relocate overseas with her children once her business in Chanaea was concluded.Hence, the timing of Sonya’s decision to strike at her now benefitted no one, not even Sonya herself.Roxanne’s head was throbbing hard. Somewhat vexed, she pulled out her handphone with the intention of calling Sonya up to question the latter.After dialing her number several times, she received as many automated responses, making it apparent that she had been blacklisted.A dejected Roxanne switched off her phone and went over to Colby at the side. “I’m sorry that the research institute has been affected because of my personal matters.”Having heard her phone conversation with Larry and the change in her demeanor afterward, Colby mo
After they chatted a little longer, Roxanne called Jonathan on the phone. It did not take long for him to answer her call. “Dr. Jarvis, is something the matter?”They had not contacted each other after Alfred’s birthday banquet, so Jonathan was a little puzzled that she had suddenly called him.Roxanne played it cool and asked, “Is Old Mr. Queen at home? I was thinking of visiting to check on his condition and recovery progress.”Jonathan agreed immediately. “That’s so thoughtful of you. He’s at home, so come on over.”After confirming that Alfred was home, Roxanne hung up, picked up her medical kit, and headed for the Queen residence.When she arrived at the gates to the Queen residence, the butler was already waiting there.The butler greeted her respectfully when he saw her. “Ms. Jarvis, Mr. Queen asked me to meet you here. He’s waiting for you in the living room.”She nodded and followed the butler toward the mansion.While walking, she pondered how to broach the subject with Jon
Roxanne chuckled without saying anything. Looking up at Jonathan standing opposite her, she said with a smile, “The reason for my visit this time is also because there’s something I need Mr. Queen’s help with.” Jonathan agreed readily. “How can I be of help, Dr. Jarvis?”Just as she was about to respond, Alfred waved his large hand dismissively. “Don’t talk about it here. Lunch should be ready by now. Why don’t you have lunch with us, Dr. Jarvis? The two of you can talk while you eat.”A torn expression flashed across Roxanne’s face upon hearing that.Instead of saying that my visit here is to seek Jonathan’s help, it’d be more accurate to say I’m here to confront him. But with Old Mr. Queen welcoming her so warmly, I don’t know if I’ll be able to bring myself to question Jonathan!“Dr. Jarvis, you have made a trip all the way here, so stay and join us for a meal,” Jonathan chimed in too.With that, he helped Alfred into the mansion.Roxanne had no choice but to follow them, abandoni
Jack froze for a few seconds before coming to some kind of realization and agreeing to it. The two of them then went out of the research institute.A look of delight danced across Colby’s face when he saw them leave.Ever since Jack came for Roxanne, Colby had been keeping his focus on the two.Therefore, he saw the look of struggle on Roxanne’s face.Evidently, what he had said in the morning was effective.Meanwhile, Roxanne came to a stop in her tracks at the entrance of the institute with mixed feelings still surging in her heart. In the meantime, Jack stopped behind her.“Sorry.” Roxanne had calmed herself down on their way out and realized that she had been a little too carried away earlier.Jack raised a brow and teased, “What’s the matter? Why are you apologizing to me all of a sudden? You couldn’t have secretly done something terrible to the project, could you, Ms. Jarvis?”Roxanne shook her head immediately. “Of course not.”I’ve done so much for this project. Why would I d
Estella looked at her father, who was already at the door and turned to look at Aubree, who was still standing by the couch. A few moments pa*sed, and the little girl finally begrudgingly got out of her chair and jogged to keep up with Lucian.Aubree let out a relieved sigh and caught up to them as well.“Daddy,” Estella mumbled. She gave her father a puppy-eyed look and tugged at the corner of his shirt in a bid to curry favor with her father.Lucian lowered his gaze to meet Estella’s. He lifted his hand and patted her head. “I’m really busy lately. Please don’t throw a tantrum at me.”Estella pursed her lips in disapproval, refusing to believe what he said.She knew as a matter of fact that Lucian was in a bad mood because he had quarreled with Roxanne.Estella was flabbergasted that Lucian was still trying to lie to her, despite the fact that even she knew the real reason her father was upset.Why are adults so weird? Why doesn’t Daddy just make up with Ms. Jarvis?Of course, Luci
Cory was in a good mood, knowing he had once again made a fortune. He then said, “Of course. Ms. Pearson, I’m sure you’ve come to me again because you believe in my capabilities. Now, tell me. What is it that you want me to investigate?” Narrowing her eyes, Aubree said, “Investigate what happened between Roxanne and Lucian!”Cory let out a meaningful chuckle when he heard what she said.Aubree questioned coldly, “Why are you laughing?”As if unaware of her anger, Cory muttered, “Since you’ve agreed to the price I proposed so readily, I have to show you something.”With that, he took out a phone from the bag beside him and typed away on the screen.Soon, Aubree received a few messages on her phone.“I believe what you’re about to see won’t disappoint you, Ms. Pearson.” Cory sounded confident.Aubree furrowed her brows and swiped open her phone, checking the messages he sent.The chat interface showed that Cory had sent her more than ten pictures.Each picture was attached with the tim
Aubree followed Estella closely into the room. Hesitantly, she muttered, “Lucian…” She felt somewhat guilty when she noticed the young girl fuming at Lucian.At the same time, she was relieved that Estella had not said a word to her father.Lucian nodded at Aubree and said, “Sorry for troubling you to look after Essie.”Aubree was delighted by his words. She sputtered, “Not at all. I’m happy to do this. Essie’s a lovely girl.”As for how she upset Estella in the car earlier, Aubree decided to sweep things under the rug if the young girl kept things to herself.“Dinner’s ready. Why don’t you eat with us?” Lucian offered.Aubree was over the moon. “Sure.”They entered the dining room one after another.Catalina had already set the table for three.Aubree said, “I’ll go get Essie.”Despite her suggestion, she was not confident about coaxing Estella downstairs.After all, the young girl was put out because of Aubree, and she might not listen to her instructions.If she throws a tantrum i
Archie and Benny stayed in the bathroom for a little while longer before heading out. Roxanne was still chatting with Jack at the time.She had wanted to get him to leave as soon as possible, but Jack started talking about the ancient medicine books halfway through the conversation.Due to Roxanne’s incredible pa*sion for medicine, she couldn’t help but get carried away talking about it again.It wasn’t until Lysa told them dinner was ready that she snapped out of it.“Would you like to stay for dinner, Mr. Damaris?” Roxanne asked out of courtesy.Jack arched an eyebrow when he saw Archie and Benny standing next to the kitchen.They were both glaring daggers at him and looked like they would tear him to pieces if he accepted her invitation.Because they were still kids, they just looked adorable no matter how fierce their expressions were.Jack couldn’t help but smile in amusement as he drawled suspensefully, “Thank you for the invitation, Ms. Jarvis. I—”He was halfway through his s
In the kindergarten, Archie and Benny sat in their seats quietly while the other children were playing games with Pippa. They could sense something was off when Roxanne said she would send them to school that morning.It wasn’t until Roxanne handed them over to Pippa that they noticed Roxanne glancing at the crowd from time to time as if she was looking for someone.When Pippa led them into the school, they looked back and saw Roxanne still looking around.Although Archie and Benny said nothing, they knew Roxanne was looking for Lucian and Estella.Mommy must feel terrible after the fight with Daddy that day.At the thought of Roxanne’s sadness and disappointment, Archie and Benny’s moods were gloomy, too.“Archie, Benny, what’s wrong?”Seeing the listless look on the boys’ faces, Pippa walked over to comfort them, “Are you missing Estella?”At the mention of Estella, Archie and Benny’s faces immediately fell. I wonder how Essie is doing…“Don’t worry. Mr. Farwell will take good care
Frowning, Lucian fell silent for several seconds. Within several short seconds, the smile slid off Aubree’s face.Until Lucian’s voice sounded once more.“Judging by Essie’s demeanor this morning, the relationship between you seemed to have improved by a lot.”Aubree froze for several seconds at his words before she registered what he said.It was true that the child had been receptive toward her that morning.Aside from rejecting her touch, Estella had responded to almost everything she had said.It was a big improvement compared to before.“I was the one at fault back then,” Aubree replied with a laugh. “I wasn’t patient enough with Essie. Now that I’m a little more patient, Essie can sense it and responds accordingly.”“That’s good,” Lucian answered solemnly. “Enjoy each other’s company.”Smiling, Aubree a*sured him she would.Without discussing it any further, Lucian ended the call on the pretext of work.Though he had already decided to proceed with the engagement, he did not ha
Estella’s resolve wavered at the mention of Lucian. She had seen how drunk Lucian was the night before and surmised he must have drunk a lot.I wonder what Daddy was up to.Aubree delighted at the indecision in Estella’s eyes and continued, “If you don’t want to attend school, I can help put in a word or two when your daddy’s feeling better.”It was only then that Estella relented and allowed her entry into the room.Aubree got to her feet to let Estella get dressed while she picked out the clothes she would wear to school.Once the clothes were selected, she a*sisted Estella to brush her teeth.Estella gradually began to let her guard down.Aubree used to threaten her whenever they spent time together.Estella supposed Aubree wouldn’t try anything since she didn’t seem inclined to do so this time.Moreover, Aubree brought up Lucian in their conversation.Estella was docile and compliant to her demands as she did not want to trouble Lucian. Nonetheless, her expression was still sulle
Aubree spent the night in the same guest room she stayed in during her previous visit. As she entered the room, she could not help but recall what she had done last time.For a moment, I even thought of using the same method to teach that little b*tch another lesson to see if she dares to be disobedient again!However, it was only a fleeting thought because, ultimately, she was still afraid Lucian would find out about it.Now that she had hope, she would never be able to forgive herself if she lost it due to another mistake she made.As Aubree lay in bed, the scene from earlier in Lucian’s bedroom kept playing through her head.I was so close to becoming Mrs. Farwell! If only Cayden hadn’t appeared!Aubree stayed up all night, waiting for Cayden to come over and inform her that Lucian had woken up.She never expected to wait until the sun was high in the sky, and he still had not come over.The memory of Cayden’s attitude toward her the night before made Aubree grit her teeth. She go