Chapter 1110: What Is Going On?

Lucian fell silent, his brow furrowed. Aubree's smile vanished almost instantly, until Lucian spoke again. "Judging by Essie's demeanor this morning, your relationship seems to have improved significantly."

Aubree froze, taking a moment to process his words. It was true; Estella had been remarkably receptive that morning, responding to almost everything she said, aside from rejecting her touch. This was a vast improvement.

"I was at fault," Aubree replied with a laugh. "I wasn't patient enough with Essie. Now that I'm more patient, she senses it and responds accordingly."

"That's good," Lucian answered gravely. "Enjoy each other's company."

Smiling, Aubree assured him she would. Without further discussion, Lucian ended the call, citing work. Though he'd decided to proceed with the engagement, he had nothing more to say to Aubree.

Aubree hung up, her smile lingering. She invited Frieda to dinner. After Frieda hung up, she packed and left the Queen residence. Emerging from her bedroom, she encountered Jonathan, newly awake and in a foul mood from the previous night's drinking. His already bad mood worsened, fueled by the memory of Lucian's words from the night before.

"Where are you off to so early?" Jonathan asked, frowning at Frieda's broad smile.

Frieda beamed. "Aubree invited me to dinner. You wouldn't know, considering your drinking last night, but Lucian had Aubree pick him up and even sent Essie to school with her this morning."

Jonathan was stunned. He vaguely remembered Lucian asking Aubree for a ride, but he hadn't expected such a swift handover of Estella's care. Frieda reveled in his astonishment.

"I told you Aubree would become Mrs. Farwell, but you wouldn't listen, insisting on helping Roxanne. Believe me now?"

Jonathan nodded weakly. "Regardless, it's still the Farwell family's business."

Frieda started to retort, but he interrupted sharply. "Drive safely. And think before you act. Don't let yourself be used as a pawn again."

Without another word, Jonathan descended the stairs. Frieda watched him go, stamping her foot in anger. Despite their equal treatment in the Queen residence, Jonathan always held precedence in official matters. She'd finally been on the right side of things, but he wouldn't let her gloat.

After a moment, Frieda composed herself and strode noisily downstairs. She even glared at Jonathan at the dining table, where he was having breakfast. He was too preoccupied with Lucian's actions to notice. Her annoyance intensified when he remained oblivious, and her sour mood persisted even upon reaching the restaurant.

"What's wrong?" Aubree asked, genuinely concerned by her friend's gloomy expression.