Chapter 1095

Catalina couldn't bear to see Estella suffer. "Ms. Pearson," she said, "Ms. Estella has just woken up and might still feel sleepy. Why don't you let her sleep a little while longer?"

Estella hurriedly nodded and even feigned a yawn. Her innocent expression made her act convincing.

A furious look fleetingly crossed Aubree's face, but she quickly regained her composure. "It seems my timing is off," she said. "Go on and rest, Essie."

Utterly relieved, Estella hastily closed the door without a word. Aubree's smile vanished as the door shut. She wanted to scowl at Catalina and tell her to mind her own business, but she suspected Catalina was following Lucian's orders, observing her interactions with Estella. Deciding to maintain her act, Aubree recomposed herself. She stood and glanced at Catalina.

"I'll come over more often these next two days to keep Essie company," she said. "I only brought cakes, thinking she liked them. I seem to be mistaken. You've cared for Essie for years. Do you know what she enjoys?" She offered Catalina a rare smile.

Catalina lowered her head, disdain simmering within her. She had cared for Estella for years, enduring Aubree's uninvited visits. The audacity of Aubree to ask her what Estella liked! It was clear Aubree had never truly considered Estella's preferences.

Unaware of Catalina's resentment, Aubree continued, "I was too inconsiderate of Essie's feelings in the past, forcing my own interests on her. No wonder she dislikes me. I know I'm wrong now. Catalina, I hope you can guide me."

Aubree's tone was sincere, ignoring her recent harsh treatment of Catalina. Catalina remained tight-lipped. "Ms. Estella doesn't particularly favor anything," she replied. "Besides, I'm only the cook. I don't know her preferences."

"Then what does she like to eat? I'll try to learn."

Catalina deliberately mentioned a difficult-to-make dish. Aubree's brow furrowed slightly, almost imperceptibly. The difficulty didn't seem to deter her; she could always buy it.

They went downstairs. Just as Catalina thought Aubree was leaving, Aubree sat on the couch. "Essie probably won't sleep long. I'll just wait for her to wake up."

Aubree then texted Frieda. In reality, she wasn't waiting for Estella. She wanted to appear before Lucian upon his return.

The afternoon passed, and Estella remained upstairs. Unexpectedly, Catalina received a call from Lucian. Aubree watched intently. After the call, she immediately asked, "What did Lucian say? When is he coming back?"

"Mr. Farwell said he'll be late today and asked me to take Ms. Estella to dinner," Catalina replied. "Are you staying for dinner, Ms. Pearson?"

Aubree's expression darkened as she stood. "No, I have an appointment." Before leaving, she reminded Catalina, "Please tell Essie when she comes downstairs." Catalina nodded respectfully and showed her to the door.