Chapter 1140
“You’re speaking nonsense!”
Estella rose from the floor and angrily shoved the last speaker. Amused by her defiance, the other children grew even more boisterous. The girl Estella had pushed retaliated with a shove of her own.
“Did I say anything wrong? You’re just a mute! If we hadn’t played with you today, would you have spoken? Adults hate kids who can’t speak, Little Mute!” The girl raised her arm, furious. “How dare you push me! Not even my mommy and daddy have ever hit me!”
Estella was no match for the girl’s strength, and many children watched from the sidelines. Despite her anger, Estella felt a wave of fear as the girl raised her arm. Helpless, she glanced at Pamela. If Ms. Ward were here, she thought, she would help me. But Pamela was preoccupied with a crying child and couldn’t see what was happening, as Estella was surrounded.
As the girl’s hand descended, Estella reflexively closed her eyes. She longed for Archie and Benny.
“What are you doing?”
Just as despair overwhelmed Estella, Roxanne burst through the classroom door. She had been watching from outside and finally realized Estella was being bullied. She’d expected the teacher to intervene, but Pamela seemed unaware. Seeing Estella about to be hit, Roxanne rushed in, panicked.
The sudden appearance of an adult shocked the children. The girl with the raised arm recoiled, quickly hiding her hand and nervously glancing at Roxanne. These children were adept at feigning obedience around adults.
“Miss, you misunderstood. She pushed me first…” the girl mumbled, feigning offense.
Roxanne was astonished by the girl’s innocent act. Had she not witnessed the entire event, she would have been deceived. However, she didn't scold the girl. Instead, she crouched down and pulled Estella into her arms. Estella trembled violently.
“Don’t be scared, Essie. You’re okay now,” Roxanne comforted her, stroking her head.
Estella cautiously looked up. Her face crumpled at the sight of Roxanne. She sniffled, tears welling in her eyes.
Chapter 1140
Triggered by the children’s earlier words, Estella wrapped her arm around Roxanne’s neck and whispered, “Mommy…”
The word made Roxanne’s heart leap, and she instinctively held Estella tighter. She knew she didn’t deserve the title, but she understood from their lips the source of their taunts. A major reason for their bullying was their belief that Estella lacked a mother. The thought pained Roxanne. In the end, she didn't correct Estella.