Chapter 1093

“This is frustrating!” Aubree groaned. “Why are children so difficult to please? Lucian, too. If he’s chosen me as his wife, we’ll have children of our own in the future. Why must he wait for Essie’s acceptance?”

“I’ve already planned this,” she continued. “If I marry Lucian, we’ll have a child. In the future, Farwell Group’s assets will be my child’s! As for Estella, I’ll spare her some assets—just enough to get by.”

Frieda smiled. “You’re right, but that’ll have to wait until you’re married.”

Aubree rolled her eyes. “What then? I’ve suggested gifts, but neither of us knows her preferences. How long will her acceptance take? Who can guarantee a second Roxanne won’t appear?”

“I’ve waited six years,” Aubree said, her voice hardening. “I won’t wait any longer. I can’t risk it. Since Lucian’s relenting, I must seize this opportunity.”

After a long silence, Frieda said, “Then, why not sincerely try to get along with Essie?”

“What?” Aubree laughed harshly. “Me? Getting along with that girl?”

Aubree’s voice dropped to a bitter whisper. “If not for that girl, Lucian wouldn’t have dragged this out for six years. Those six years are all because of her! She’s the reason Lucian’s growing distant.”

The resentment was palpable. Wanting Aubree to befriend Estella felt like a cruel joke.

Frieda, understanding Aubree’s feelings, tried to persuade her. “It’s temporary. Once you marry Lucian, Essie will be under your control. You can treat her as you wish then.”

Despite the harshness of her words, Frieda felt compelled to speak, Estella being a girl she’d watched grow up.

Aubree remained unconvinced. “I can’t stand her. How can I get along with someone who made my life so difficult?”

Frieda smiled gently. “That’s the quickest way to gain her acceptance. Children are sensitive; they detect insincerity instantly.”

Seeing Aubree’s reluctance, Frieda pressed on. “Lucian is popular. You haven’t married him yet, and many eligible women are vying for his attention. If you delay further…”

Frieda paused, her voice softening. They were both in a precarious situation. To cover her actions on Aubree’s behalf, she had to ensure Aubree became Lucian’s wife.

Only then did Aubree relent slightly. “So, what should I do?”

Frieda sighed in relief. “Essie knows she can’t see Roxanne anymore, so she’ll be upset. Spend time with her, subtly reminding her of your presence. Even if she doesn’t accept you, Lucian will see your efforts.”

Aubree nodded slowly. “Freda’s right. Even if I can’t change Estella’s mind, I need Lucian to think I care about her.”