Chapter 1126

Remembering her task of taking Estella to school the next day, Aubree set an alarm for six o'clock. She felt intensely irritated when the alarm blared, shattering her sleep. The previous night, she'd barely slept, consumed by thoughts of Roxanne and Jack. She'd managed only three or four hours.

Raising a hand to silence the alarm, she closed her eyes, wishing for a return to slumber. But I still need to gain Lucian's favor.

After lingering under the covers, Aubree reluctantly climbed out of bed, suppressing her anger. She washed up and went downstairs.

Gina was leisurely watering flowers and was surprised to see her daughter up so early. "Why are you up so early?"

Still grumpy from sleep deprivation, Aubree's expression was grim. "I have to take Essie to school."

Hearing this, Gina nodded understandingly. "You should. You're suffering now in exchange for a bright future after you marry Lucian. Hang in there."

Aubree was, of course, aware of this. Otherwise, she wouldn't have risen so early.

"Did you look into what I told you last night?" Gina asked, turning to her daughter after finishing with the flowers.

Aubree nodded, her brow furrowed. "Yes, I asked someone to investigate, but I'm unsure of the reason." She'd been pondering it all night. According to Cory's information, Roxanne's daily routine hadn't changed significantly. It didn't seem plausible that Lucian had ended things with Roxanne because of her relationship with Jack; they were already friendly before her falling out with Lucian. However, if that wasn't the reason, Aubree couldn't fathom another.

Seeing her daughter had considered her advice, Gina said nothing more.

After a simple breakfast, Aubree drove to the Farwell residence. Lucian was having breakfast with Estella. He frowned slightly upon seeing Aubree. "Why are you here so early?"

Aubree beamed. "Farwell Group is quite far from Essie's kindergarten, and it would be inconvenient for you to travel there. So, I thought I'd do it instead." She offered Estella a friendly smile.

Estella pursed her lips, remembering their previous day's events. Lucian pondered, feeling inexplicably awkward. Estella had spent time with Roxanne before transferring kindergartens; Roxanne had been the one to take her to school. Now, both the kindergarten and the person taking her had changed.

A self-deprecating look crossed Lucian's face. I've already decided to cut ties with Roxanne. So why am I still thinking about her?

Aubree felt uneasy after a long silence, thinking he was again giving her the cold shoulder. "If you've already asked someone else to take Essie, I—"

Before she finished, Lucian's deep voice interrupted. "You're just in time. Have you had breakfast? If not, join us."

Aubree's eyes lit up. "It's fine. I got up very early, so I've already eaten." She pointed cautiously at the couch. "I'll sit here and wait."