Chapter 1258
The two women in the ward quieted at the sound from outside. Seconds later, Frieda opened the door. Seeing the men, she panicked, clenching her fists to regain control.
“Lucian, have you come to visit Aubree? Her injuries are quite bad. I blame—”
Jonathan interrupted, “Shut up! This is for Lucian and Aubree to discuss. I want you here right now!”
Stunned, Frieda glared at her brother, but Lucian’s cold stare silenced her. A chill ran down her spine, and she retreated, head bowed. Lucian entered the ward without speaking.
Frieda stood outside, dazed by his terrifying gaze. Meanwhile, Aubree, having heard the commotion, wiped away her scowl and adopted an expression of surprise and hurt by the time Lucian entered. “Lucian, what brings you here?” she asked, managing a smile despite stiffening at his expression. “Come, take a seat.”
Lucian remained standing. “Who told you to look for Roxanne?”
A glint flashed in Aubree’s eyes as she began her sob story. “You said Essie was at Mrs. Farwell’s, so I visited. Learning that wasn’t true, I assumed you’d sent Essie to Ms. Jarvis. Worried Mrs. Farwell might overwhelm her, I went myself…”
Aubree looked at her injured arm. “I was polite and reasonable. I only wanted to take Essie home before Mrs. Farwell arrived. But Ms. Jarvis attacked me! Look at my arm! It’s severely injured. Have I offended her? Why was she so cruel?”
Aubree watched Lucian, gauging his reaction. But he remained stern and cold, the tension palpable.
Sensing her gaze, Lucian frowned and turned to her. Seeing the disgust and hatred in his eyes, Aubree panicked.
“L-Lucian…” she stammered. “Are you mad I looked for Ms. Jarvis? I promise never to go near her again! She’s just recovered; I understand her emotions. This is a small injury; I can overlook it—”
“Shut up!” Lucian roared. He knew the truth; Aubree’s distortions and the image of a tearful Roxanne fueled his rage.
Aubree trembled, silent, her eyes wide with fear.
“Aubree Pearson, I’m sure you’ve been acting for years in front of my mother and me. Haven’t you had enough?” Lucian snapped, his face devoid of warmth.