Chapter 1363

After hanging up, Roxanne went upstairs to wake the children for breakfast. Estella was still asleep, sprawled on her bed. Roxanne woke her and helped her wash before knocking on Archie and Benny's door. The boys were already awake, engrossed in online comments. Their respect for their father grew as they saw the offending posts had been almost entirely deleted.

Upon hearing the knock, the boys quickly closed their laptop and opened the door. "You boys are awake! Come down for breakfast," Roxanne said, beaming with pride at their brushed teeth. The boys followed her downstairs.

During breakfast, Roxanne announced her upcoming business trip. "I'm going away for several days starting tomorrow. Linda will be babysitting. Be good and listen to her, understood?"

The news saddened the children, particularly Estella. "You're going away, Mommy? Can we come along?" she pleaded. Estella’s reluctance was palpable; she felt uncomfortable at the thought of being separated from her mother. Roxanne, seeing Estella's distress, felt a pang of guilt. She knew the trip would be demanding, leaving little time for her children. "I'll be very busy, but you can call me if you miss me. I'll always answer," she said firmly, deciding it was best for them to stay home.

Estella, still upset, looked to her brothers for support. Archie and Benny, though tender towards their sister, understood their mother's dedication to work. They remembered similar trips from their time abroad. "Be good, Essie," Archie reassured her, stroking her arm. "Ms. Linda is fun and will take good care of us. Mommy will be back before you know it!"

Estella, though still a little downcast, returned to her breakfast. Archie then asked, "What's your business trip about, Mommy?"

Roxanne explained Jack's call, detailing the nursing home's deplorable condition and the demanding nature of her work. The children, understanding her mission, offered their support. "Those poor elderly people. You must help them, Mommy. We will wait patiently for your return," they said. Estella added, "I will await your return patiently too, Mommy!"

Roxanne was deeply touched by their thoughtfulness. "Thank you. I'll resolve things quickly and return as soon as possible." They finished breakfast harmoniously, sharing small bites with their mother.