Chapter 1056: It Is Clear

Roxanne felt this was unjust to Estella. “Just because Essie is a Farwell, does that mean she should be treated this way and prevented from befriending people she likes?”

Sonya sneered, “If you’re talking about your sons, then she isn’t allowed to befriend them.” A flash of disappointment crossed Archie and Benny’s faces.

Roxanne, equally upset, said, “Mrs. Farwell, the children have nothing to do with our disagreement.” She knew the elderly woman’s animosity toward Archie and Benny stemmed from her, as they rarely interacted with Sonya. She offered the boys an apologetic look. Though unaware of their background, their biological grandmother despised them because of her.

For a moment, Roxanne considered revealing Archie and Benny’s identities to Sonya to stop the insults.

Sonya, uninterested in arguing, coaxed Estella, “Come on, Essie. Let’s go home.”

Frightened by the argument, Estella shook her head vigorously, her eyes reddening with fear. “No! I don’t want to leave! I want to stay and play with Archie and Benny!”

Sonya’s rage intensified when Estella refused to obey. She’d initially intended to apologize for yelling, but Estella’s choice to side with Roxanne enraged her. Blind with anger, Sonya scowled and moved to push Roxanne away.

Roxanne, holding the children’s hands, retreated cautiously. Just as Sonya was about to act, a car horn blared outside. Roxanne glanced toward the sound and saw Lucian exiting his car. He approached them, his presence radiating intimidation.

Roxanne’s heart sank. If Lucian insisted on taking Essie, she couldn't stop him. Feeling helpless, she relaxed her defensive posture.

Sensing the shift, Sonya paused, turning her head. Seeing her son, she gained confidence. “Lucian, I’m glad you’re here. You’re here to pick up Essie, right?”

Roxanne looked down, unsure how to face him. Lucian frowned slightly, remaining silent.

Sonya shook her head. “I can’t believe those boys. They must have influenced Essie. I’m unhappy about this. I think it’s best if Essie stays with me.”

Estella’s eyes widened in shock; she burst into tears. All eyes turned to her.

“No!” Estella cried, unable to fully open her eyes. “I want Ms. Jarvis…” Her preference for Roxanne was clear.

Despite her humiliation, Sonya restrained her anger in her son’s presence. Trying to comfort Estella, she offered, “Come on, stop crying. I’ll buy you a present if you come home. Anything you want, I promise.”

Estella clung to Roxanne’s leg, shaking her head and sobbing.