Chapter 125: Confronting Aubree

Realizing she was the most suspicious person because of her unresolved conflict with Lucian, Roxanne quickly explained, "Just so you know, I didn't do this! I believe children are innocent! Besides, Archie and Benny like Essie, so I would never hurt her!"

She'd also spent time alone with Estella, making it impossible to explain herself if Lucian suspected her. Her anxiety was so intense it showed on her face.

Lucian gave her a confused glance. "I'm not suspecting you. In fact, I think I know who did this."

Roxanne breathed a sigh of relief. "Who?" she asked worriedly.

The room grew colder as Lucian fell into deep thought. "Mom and Dad took Essie out yesterday without explanation. Their behavior is strange, but I know they love Essie and would never hurt her. The only other person who's been with Essie since last night is Aubree! Essie dislikes her, but I never thought Aubree would hurt her like this!"

Seeing his gloomy expression, Roxanne asked anxiously, "Well? Who is it?"

Lucian suppressed his anger. "I'll leave Essie in your care. I need to take care of something."

He left, leaving Roxanne with a displeased frown. As if not knowing about his daughter's injuries wasn't bad enough, he's just leaving her here after finding out? she thought.

Aubree, terrified by Lucian's earlier intimidation, sat in the restaurant for a while before returning home. Even then, she couldn't shake Lucian's questioning. She was about to call Elias and Sonya when the doorbell rang. She put away her phone and had the butler answer.

The butler returned with her visitor. Aubree paled upon seeing Lucian.

"L-Lucian? What are you doing here?"

Before she finished, Lucian grabbed her throat. Fear filled Aubree's eyes. "Lucian, what's the meaning of this?"

Lucian's bloodthirsty expression made him look demonic. "Were you the one who hurt Essie?" he asked, tightening his grip.

Aubree struggled for breath. "L-Lucian, I don't know what you're talking about! Let go, and we'll talk…"

Lucian narrowed his eyes. "How long will you keep this up, Aubree?"

"I didn't do it! I love Essie! I know nothing about these wounds! This is a misunderstanding! You have to believe me, Lucian!" Aubree protested, her face white.

The final two lines ("Search the FindNovel.net website") were removed as they are promotional material and not part of the story itself.