Chapter 1316

After a long silence, Sonya said gloomily, “You’re going that far for her? Fine! I’ll leave so I won’t get in the way of your happy little family!”

She turned to leave, but Lucian called out, “Stay in the manor today. I have something to announce once Essie feels better.”

Sonya paused, glancing at him in confusion. “What is it?”

This was the first time Lucian had asked her to stay. Whatever he was about to announce must be important. He’d agreed to relinquish his position as CEO of Farwell Group… Was this it? This was all Roxanne’s fault! Lucian wouldn’t have made such irrational decisions if not for her!

Sonya glared viciously at Roxanne, who ignored her and continued comforting Estella.

“You’d better think this through, Lucian. Ask yourself if that woman is worth giving up Farwell Group!” Sonya warned furiously.

Lucian saw her fear. “Just because I have an announcement doesn’t mean it’s about Farwell Group. You have nothing to worry about.”

Sonya looked suspiciously at them for a moment before ascending the stairs.

Once Aubree and Sonya were gone, Estella stopped sobbing and looked at Roxanne, tears in her eyes. Roxanne’s heart ached. “Don’t worry, Essie. I’ll protect you.”

Essie must have suffered terribly under Aubree’s care. The thought of what Aubree had done made Roxanne hate her even more. Essie couldn't even speak at the time!

Lucian’s whisper interrupted her thoughts. “I’m sorry.”

Roxanne looked up, confused. Lucian felt immense guilt, remembering Estella’s earlier cries. He approached Estella, his expression apologetic. “I’m sorry I didn’t take good care of you.”

Estella sniffled, shaking her head vehemently.

“I’ve disliked Aubree for six years. I can’t believe I never realized why…” Lucian said regretfully.

Estella caressed his cheek. “It’s not your fault, Daddy! She’s the bad person! She’s the worst!”

“I wanted to tell you before, but Ms. Pearson lied, saying you’d never get rid of her. She threatened me if I told you. Now I know she lied! You would have punished her!”

Lucian kissed Estella’s hand, then turned to Roxanne. “I’m sorry,” he said apologetically.

Roxanne frowned, unsure why he was apologizing. Yet, seeing his guilt, she comforted him.

“You were wrong to leave Essie with Aubree for six years. But Essie’s fondness for you shows you provided security; you were a good father. What happened is past. You’ve punished Aubree; that’s enough.”