Chapter 1134

Meanwhile, Estella and Pamela were the only ones remaining at the kindergarten entrance.

“Essie, who’s picking you up today? Were you always picked up this late at your previous kindergarten?” Pamela patiently explained to Estella, as this was her first time encountering such a situation.

Estella pursed her lips in silence, seemingly ignoring Pamela. She had never wanted to attend this new kindergarten, and the long wait only deepened her unhappiness.

Just as Pamela considered calling Lucian, a car pulled up beside them. Aubree emerged, her face etched with anxiety.

“I’m so sorry for being late, Ms. Yaxley. The traffic was terrible,” she said to Pamela, then offered an apologetic look to Estella. “I’m so sorry to keep you waiting, Essie. I’ll definitely be earlier next time!”

Estella continued to pout silently.

Pamela smiled, diffusing the tension. “It’s normal for children to be upset after waiting so long. She’ll be fine soon.”

Aubree nodded, pulled Estella close, bid Pamela goodbye, and ushered Estella into the car. Throughout the drive, Aubree repeatedly apologized.

“I’m so sorry. I live far from your kindergarten, and I didn’t expect such heavy traffic.”

Estella, head down, ignored Aubree, fiddling with her fingers.

Upon arriving at the Farwell residence, Lucian was about to call Aubree when he saw her car pull up. He frowned.

“Lucian, I’m sorry I was late picking up Essie. I was stuck in traffic,” Aubree explained, already in character, her expression remorseful, her eyes reddened.

Lucian suppressed his desire to question her.

“It’s all my fault. Essie never liked her new kindergarten, and I made it worse by letting her wait. No wonder she’s upset,” Aubree blamed herself.

Behind her, Estella glanced up. A slight change in her expression was visible, but she remained silent. Estella had suspected Aubree’s apologies were insincere, but now she wasn't so sure.

Lucian observed Aubree’s self-recrimination, his expression shifting.

“Perhaps I should find a place closer to Essie’s kindergarten? Otherwise, it’ll be troublesome if I get stuck in traffic again…” Aubree added, subtly watching Lucian’s reaction.

His furrowed brow filled Aubree with secret delight. The time was right to increase the pressure. “I’ll have my mother look for a place for me when I get back.”

“There’s no need,” Lucian said deeply. “You can move into the manor temporarily. It will be more convenient for you to pick up Essie and care for her here.”

Aubree feigned hesitation. “Wouldn’t Essie be uncomfortable if I moved in? I feel we should take things slowly in improving our relationship.”

“Since we’ll be living together eventually, we might as well let her get used to it now.” Lucian turned to Catalina. “Prepare the guest room for Ms. Pearson.”

Aubree was elated. Lucian’s attitude would soften as long as she demonstrated her concern for Essie. Her days in the Farwell residence seemed less daunting now.