Chapter 1041: Too Late

“Mommy…” The children leaned anxiously against Roxanne’s knee. “We’re fine, Mommy! Don’t worry.” Roxanne’s expression darkened as she examined their arm wounds.

“I know you’re missing Essie, and I don’t blame you. But look at these injuries! Why did you lie to me?” The injuries weren't from a simple fall; it was unlikely both children would fall simultaneously.

Noticing her near tears, Benny glanced guiltily at Archie and whispered, “We bumped into some older kids, and they chased us.”

He continued, “Thankfully, Archie was there to protect me, and we got home.”

Seeing Benny’s confession, Archie took responsibility. “If anyone’s to blame, it’s me, Mommy. I wanted to bring Benny out.”

Roxanne’s gaze intensified. “Why did they chase you? Were they trying to rob you?”

Before Archie could answer, Benny blurted, “No. Archie wanted to give them money, but they refused. They said they’d already been paid…”

Archie shot Benny a look that silenced him.

“I suppose it was an accident,” Archie added casually. “Maybe they mistook us for someone else. We didn’t know them.”

Roxanne, however, suspected otherwise. Forcing a smile, she said, “Okay. Let me bandage your wounds. Afterward, we’ll go out to dinner.”

Archie and Benny remained silent as Roxanne tended their injuries. Once finished, she reminded them to be careful before heading upstairs to call Lucian.

Meanwhile, at the Farwell residence, Lucian watched Estella’s autistic episode with exasperation. Sonya patiently held Estella, offering snacks and toys to coax her to speak. Estella remained unresponsive, lowering her head and fiddling with her fingers.

“Essie, are you happy about your new school next week?” Sonya asked, smiling brightly.

Estella’s reaction to the mention of school was a reluctant pout.

Lucian frowned, wanting to counter his mother. “Since Essie’s unwilling, let’s homeschool her.”

Sonya glared. “I’ve found a good school. If she continues like this, she needs more interaction.”

She continued playing with Estella. Undeterred by Estella’s silence, Sonya was content as long as Estella was away from Roxanne, Archie, and Benny.

Lucian was about to speak when the phone rang. He saw the caller ID, his eyebrows furrowing. He quickly answered before Sonya could see the name.

“I’ll take this outside.”

Sonya watched him leave with a dubious look. I wonder who’s calling him. Why’s he being so secretive?

In the courtyard, Lucian stared at the still-vibrating phone, frowning heavily. She’s only calling this late to check on Essie. Isn’t it a little late for her to be concerned? A wry smile touched his lips.