Chapter 1174

Meanwhile, Estella wore a gloomy expression as she sat in Aubree's car. "Essie, your father asked me to pick you up because he's busy," Aubree explained patiently. She had tried calling Lucian earlier but was unable to reach him because he'd declined her call. This led Aubree to fear that Lucian would never allow her near Estella again. Just as she was searching for another solution, Lucian returned her call, asking her to pick Estella up from school. Naturally, Aubree was overjoyed and immediately drove to the school.

Estella's smile vanished the moment she saw Aubree at the gate. Lucian had driven her to and from school since the incident. She had only reluctantly agreed to the new kindergarten because Roxanne had promised to visit occasionally. However, several days had passed, and Roxanne hadn't appeared. To make matters worse, Lucian hadn't picked her up that day either.

"What would you like to eat, Essie? I don't think your daddy is coming home for dinner tonight, so I'll take you out instead," Aubree offered, trying to win Estella over. Estella simply pursed her lips and stared out the window, ignoring her. Aubree persisted. "How about I bring you shopping for a new toy? I saw a store selling really pretty dolls!" Seeing Estella still wasn't looking at her in the rearview mirror, Aubree's patience snapped. Lucian had been distant lately, and now his daughter was ignoring her completely. Was it because that woman had been visiting them? Stuck in traffic, Aubree vented her frustration by honking angrily.

Frightened by the sudden noise, Estella flinched and curled up in a corner. A hint of glee flickered in Aubree's eyes. Ha! I knew it! This little brat just needs a little punishment! Estella, sensing Aubree's change in demeanor, grew scared.

"I want Daddy!"

Aubree frowned. She almost scolded Estella, but then realized an opportunity. Smiling, she asked, "Do you miss your daddy, Essie? Why didn't you say so?" She pulled out her phone and called Lucian while Estella watched nervously. I want to speak to Daddy, but she’s holding the phone so far away from me. I don’t know what I can tell Daddy! Lucian answered quickly. Aubree's eyes lit up at the speed of the connection. However, her smile faltered when Lucian said, "Essie?" She shot Estella a discreet glare before saying sweetly, "Essie says she misses you, Lucian."