Chapter 1096

Lucian had wanted to have dinner with Estella. Estella had been in a bad mood since Aubree's visit the previous day, and Lucian feared a relapse into her old behavior. However, Jonathan called unexpectedly that afternoon. He'd learned about Lucian and Roxanne's situation, prompting the call. Lucian's mood soured, and he invited Jonathan for a drink.

That evening, Lucian, dressed in a shirt with his jacket draped over his arm, left the Farwell Group building. As he exited, he heard a car horn. Jonathan's car was parked in front. Lucian raised an eyebrow and approached.

"Didn't we agree to meet at the club? Why are you here?"

Jonathan lowered the window and winked. "How can I let a crestfallen man drive? I'm your buddy; I'll chauffeur you this time."

Lucian's gaze darkened. "Crestfallen over nothing?"

He entered the car, tossing his jacket onto the back seat. Jonathan frowned, about to speak, but Lucian closed his eyes to nap, clearly wanting no further conversation. Resigned, Jonathan started the car.

The drink invitation had been merely that; Lucian hadn't wanted to talk. Jonathan thought things must be seriously bad between them. They remained silent during the drive, lost in their thoughts.

Half an hour later, they arrived at the club. Jonathan gave the keys to the valet and joined Lucian in a private room. Knowing the owner, they were quickly served expensive wine, and the staff were discreetly instructed to leave them undisturbed.

Only then did Jonathan open a bottle, pouring wine for himself and Lucian.

"I hear Estella's matter ended up quite messy."

Jonathan had planned his approach to getting Lucian to talk, deciding to start with Estella. Their social circle knew about her kindergarten transfer—a prestigious school for the children of the wealthy and powerful. When the other parents discovered Estella's identity, they vied for the Farwells' favor. However, Estella didn't return after the first day, prompting an immediate investigation, and the matter quickly became common knowledge.

Lucian nodded indifferently; he had nothing to hide.

Jonathan raised an eyebrow. "Estella agreed to this? How did you convince her?"

A silence followed, and Jonathan gradually realized Lucian hadn't convinced Estella at all. Her tantrum and absence from kindergarten after a single day confirmed this.

Jonathan cleared his throat awkwardly. "How is Estella feeling now?"

Lucian took a sip of wine. "She was sulking for two days, but she's fine now."