Chapter 1342

Roxanne was struck by guilt. “Sorry, I didn’t realize,” she stammered. She had subconsciously taken more photos of Estella, lost in thought about her.

Benny, realizing Roxanne had taken his joke seriously, quickly explained, “Mommy, I was just kidding! Don’t worry…” He kissed her cheek sweetly. “We know you love us! We’ve just reunited with Essie, and we know you want to make it up to her for the lost time. We understand you favor her a little. Besides, Archie and I will love Essie more too!”

Estella’s eyes crinkled in a smile. “I will love Mommy and you guys more too!”

The weight lifted from Roxanne’s chest, yet guilt lingered. Truthfully, after so long apart and finally having Estella back, Roxanne couldn't pretend to treat all her children equally. She knew, at least for now, she favored Estella.

“Mommy, we’re tired. We want to go sit on the beach,” Archie said, sensing her guilt and wanting to give her space.

Roxanne agreed, needing time to consider how to treat her children fairly. Just as she began to ponder this, Archie spoke. She smiled gratefully at his thoughtfulness. “Go on, but stay close. Keep a safe distance from the sea and keep your watches on.”

Archie nodded, leading his siblings to the beach.

“It’s all my fault. I upset Mommy,” Benny mumbled apologetically, turning to Estella. “What I said earlier was a joke. I really, really like you!” He feared she might have taken his words seriously.

Estella quickly nodded, understanding his jest. Archie and Benny had always been kind to her. She was adept at discerning sincerity.

Benny sighed with relief at her nod, then whispered to Archie, “I wish Daddy was here. He could make Mommy feel better.” He secretly sent their location to Lucian. Daddy will find us, right? Mommy will feel better with him. This eased his mind.

“Um, why did Mommy refuse Daddy’s proposal?” Estella murmured, feeling dejected despite knowing she’d likely misinterpreted Benny. I have both Mommy and Daddy’s love, but Archie and Benny only have Mommy’s. Aren’t they getting less? If Mommy and Daddy got together, Daddy would treat them like his own children.

Benny glanced at Archie. We can’t tell her Mommy refused because of Grandma. It didn’t matter; they couldn’t change it. However, they knew Estella would confront Sonya if she learned the truth, risking further upset for Roxanne.