Chapter 1068: Overthinking

“Yes,” Roxanne blurted. Her answer brought a smile to Estella’s face, though Roxanne still found the flowers an eyesore. The boys, equally displeased, relegated them to a corner. “This is taking up space. Let’s put it here,” Roxanne’s son declared. She noted their action but said nothing. Then, the doorbell rang again.

The brothers tensed, instinctively shielding Estella. If Mr. Damaris had rung earlier, this must be Mr. Farwell! We still haven’t played hide-and-seek with Essie yet! Roxanne thought similarly, but despite her reluctance to let Estella leave, she opened the door. She was met with surprise. “Mr. Damaris? Why are you back? Is something wrong?”

Jack smiled weakly. “I need to stay here a while. Someone punctured my tire; it went flat after I drove for a bit.” He glanced pointedly at the children.

Roxanne immediately invited him in.

“It’s strange,” Jack mused. “The tire was fine this morning. I don’t know when it was punctured.”

The boys met his gaze defiantly. Why is he looking at us? We didn’t do anything! Is he trying to sow discord between Mommy and us? Jack quickly looked away.

Estella, standing behind the boys, guiltily fidgeted, her hands hidden behind her back.

“What will you do, Mr. Damaris? Should I send you home?” Roxanne offered.

“No need. I’ve contacted a tow truck. I’ll wait here.”

Roxanne agreed, resuming their earlier conversation. The children watched the adults intently.

Sensing Archie and Benny’s gaze, Jack frowned, seeming to reconsider something. He realized he might have been too antagonistic toward them.

Roxanne, noticing the shift in his demeanor, asked, “What’s wrong?”

Jack composed himself, smiling. “Nothing. I’m probably overthinking.” Yet, he remained distracted as they continued talking.

After the tow truck driver called, Roxanne saw Jack out. The children remained inside. Before entering the car, Jack paused, as if remembering something. Roxanne’s heart sank.

“I’m not sure if I should mention this,” Jack began hesitantly.

Roxanne nodded encouragement.

Jack frowned. “I want to be clear this isn’t meant to be accusatory, but the children seem hostile toward me. They’re the only ones who had access to my car before the puncture.”

Roxanne’s heart plummeted. I did ask the children to play outside this morning. They could have sabotaged his car then. And he’s right about their antagonism…