Chapter 1303

Lucian accepted the camera with a neutral expression. Cory hadn't intended to conceal anything; he'd given Lucian the camera used during Aubree's case. It contained not only the case evidence but also photos Aubree had requested of Roxanne.

After handing over the camera, Cory waited anxiously. Lucian reviewed the photographs. The first was one Cory had deliberately chosen—Aubree surreptitiously adding bacteria to the children's drinks. The background was the field where Roxanne had taken the children. Despite the limited number of photos, Lucian discerned Aubree's ruthlessness and caution. He narrowed his eyes, suspecting Aubree's actions extended beyond what was depicted.

He examined the remaining images. Most showed Roxanne with Jack, and several included him and Roxanne. Even though Roxanne had accepted him, and they were close, the sight of her with Jack still irritated him. Cory had deliberately angled the shots to suggest intimacy between Roxanne and Jack.

Tension filled the office. Sensing Lucian's shift in mood, Cory craned his neck to look at the photos before explaining, "Mr. Farwell, please understand. I only made it appear they were intimate. Ms. Jarvis always maintained a safe distance from him." Cory's regret was evident, eliciting a glare from Lucian. Lucian understood, yet jealousy still gnawed at him. What had he been doing while Roxanne spent time with Jack? He'd been giving her the cold shoulder, contemplating making Aubree Essie's stepmother. The thought ignited fury within him.

Suddenly, he recognized several photographs. Lucian froze, lifting his head to look at Cory. "Did you send these photos to Aubree?"

Cory, unsure what had transpired, nodded sheepishly. "I sent most of these photos to Ms. Pearson."

Lucian's anger intensified. These were the photos Sonya had used to create a disturbance. He'd previously asked Sonya about their source, but she'd only mentioned an unknown number. Now, Aubree's machinations were undeniably clearer.

"Mr. Farwell..." Cory's fear was palpable. "Mr. Farwell, I was only doing my job! I know nothing beyond this! Aubree's a lunatic! She even asked me to kill Ms. Jarvis, but why would I? She threatened to tell you everything was my fault if I refused. I had no choice…"

Lucian snapped, "What did you just say?" The thought that Aubree wanted to kill Roxanne sent a shudder through him.

A tremor ran down Cory's spine. "Aubree went mad the night Ms. Jarvis was hospitalized…"

Lucian's wrath silenced him. Deathly silence descended upon the room. Just as Cory attempted to speak, Lucian abruptly raised his hand. The camera flew from his grasp, striking the ground and shattering the screen. Cory's knees buckled, and he nearly fell from his chair.