Chapter 1017: Petty Tricks

Estella, growing hungry from waiting, slipped out the door. Downstairs, she overheard Aubree announce her intention to spend the night. Alarm bells rang in Estella's head. Her father and Ms. Jarvis were not reconciled, and discovering Aubree's plan would enrage her further. Worse, Estella feared Aubree might become her stepmother. The child gazed at her father with wide, unblinking eyes, silently conveying her apprehension.

Lucian met Estella's gaze, offering a comforting caress before turning to Aubree. Aubree's heart sank as she realized Lucian's response wouldn't be favorable.

"You should go to the hospital," Lucian said coldly. "I couldn't explain to my mother if your condition worsens."

He rose from the couch. Estella immediately grabbed his trouser leg, shadowing him.

Aubree watched them leave, glaring maliciously at the small figure beside Lucian. That little btch again!* she thought. Then, she redirected her gaze to Lucian. "Could you come with me to the hospital, Lucian? I'm a little scared."

Lucian glanced at her with a sardonic expression, but after a moment's consideration, nodded silently. He felt it only polite to ensure she received treatment after her fall in his house.

"Daddy!" Estella tugged at his trouser leg, clearly reluctant. Daddy accompanied Ms. Jarvis all night at the hospital last time. I'm afraid he'll do the same for Ms. Pearson.

Lucian looked down at his daughter before nodding at Aubree. "Wait a moment." He carried Estella upstairs.

"Don't go to the hospital with her, Daddy!" Estella protested, puffing out her cheeks.

Though he understood her implication, Lucian was amused. "Why not?"

Estella leaned close, adopting her most forlorn expression, her tone softening. "I know you're still mad at Ms. Jarvis, Daddy, but you promised you'd ask for my blessing if you ever found me a mother."

Her hurt was evident. Lucian frowned, puzzled. He'd expected her to mention Roxanne, but her reasoning surprised him. This couldn't have come at a better time, he thought.

He placed his hand on her head, stroking her hair. "I'm only sending Ms. Pearson to the hospital," he said gently. "I'll be back very soon."

Estella remained skeptical, her eyes wide. Lucian offered no further explanation. Finally, she relented. "Then you'd better hurry back, Daddy," she chirped. "Otherwise, I'll be scared tonight."

Lucian's brows furrowed slightly. I wonder if that woman taught Essie those petty tricks.