Chapter 13: Estella's Mother

That night, after Roxanne sent Archie and Benny to bed, she returned to care for Estella. Catalina, having learned of Estella's recovery, remained by the girl's side constantly. The two women even bathed Estella together.

Catalina's heart ached at the sight of a bruise on Estella's bottom. She exclaimed, "Who did this? Ms. Estella is always frail, and Mr. Farwell can't even be stern with her"

Estella blinked at Catalina but, remembering Aubree's warning, remained silent.

Suddenly, Roxanne recalled Lucian's words from the haunted house, and the mystery of Estella's mother resurfaced. Considering Catalina's long tenure at the Farwell residence and her potential knowledge, Roxanne casually asked, "Catalina, why didn't Essie's mother visit during her illness? Was there another emergency?"

Catalina visibly stiffened, shocked. She believed Roxanne already knew Estella was her daughter; after all, she had given birth to her. The question startled her. Ms. Jarvis is subtly asking about Essie's mother. How do I answer that? she thought.

Hesitantly, Catalina asked, "Didn't Mr. Farwell discuss this with you?"

Roxanne found the response odd but couldn't understand why. She replied, "He only told me Essie's mother isn't Aubree."

So Mr. Farwell knows, but he didn't tell Ms. Jarvis, Catalina concluded. Smiling, she said, "Did you think it was Ms. Pearson? Estella doesn't resemble her at all. I'm not sure why you'd think that."

Roxanne chuckled. "Then who is Essie's mother?"

Catalina shook her head. "That's Mr. Farwell's personal matter. I wouldn't dare say. It's best to wait for him to tell you."

Catalina returned to her work, fearing a slip of the tongue. Noticing Catalina's avoidance, Roxanne ceased her questioning, though suspicion lingered. She remembered Lucian's obsession with Aubree years ago—his declaration that she was his only wife. How then did he have a child with another woman? What were his feelings for Aubree now? Had their feelings faded after six years?

Roxanne found no answers, only frustration. After bathing Estella and putting her to bed, she continued to ponder. Estella, sensing Roxanne's distress, snuggled into her arms, gazing up with concern.

Roxanne's heart melted at the girl's clear eyes. She hugged Estella, letting go of the nagging questions. Estella's parentage and Lucian's relationship with Aubree were none of her concern. She and Lucian were strangers, interacting only because of Estella. Overthinking would only increase her frustration.

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