Chapter 1364

Roxanne planned to take the children out after breakfast, but Archie and Benny declined. “We’re still tired from yesterday, Mommy, and want to stay in. Besides, Essie probably wants you all to herself since you’re leaving on your trip tomorrow.”

Estella, unaware of her brothers’ plan, also wished to spend time with her mother. “Let’s stay in today, Mommy!” she agreed readily.

Roxanne acquiesced. “Let me tidy the kitchen first. You guys can play while I do that.”

Archie and Benny nodded and led Estella upstairs. Once inside the bedroom and the door closed, Archie gave Estella a toy. “Archie and I are going to watch the stock market for a while. Play by yourself for a bit, okay?” Benny, with surprising adult-like patience and cunning, coaxed his sister into compliance.

Estella grumbled at being handed the doll, but the boys were already engaged in a hushed conversation.

“Mommy mentioned she’s going to a medical consultation. She must be going with Mr. Damaris!” Worry clouded Benny’s face.

Archie looked equally glum. “But Mommy said she’s going to help treat some elderly people. We can’t stop her.” Their concern for the elderly surpassed their anxieties about their parents' relationship.

Benny grimaced. “I know, but what if Mommy changes her mind while she’s there? Mr. Damaris once sent Mommy flowers, for goodness sake!”

The boys feared their mother might choose Mr. Damaris over Jack, leaving them fatherless.

Archie frowned, silent for a long time. Benny’s concern was valid. They couldn’t leave their mother alone with Mr. Damaris.

“We can’t stop Mommy, but we can tell Daddy,” Archie finally declared.

Benny’s eyes brightened. “That’s right! Daddy will figure something out if we tell him!”

Relieved, the children retrieved their smartwatches to message their father.

“Archie, Benny, what are you talking about? I’m so bored!” Estella, clutching the doll with a pout, approached them. She sensed her brothers had been whispering since discovering the truth of her birth—a change from their usual open communication.

A flicker of guilt crossed Benny’s face. He offered a cryptic smile. “Nothing. We were talking about the stock market. You’re too young; we thought you’d be bored.”

He lied, disgusted with himself. Gazing at Estella’s innocent expression, he swiftly changed the subject, fearing his guilt would betray him. He couldn’t tell Estella that Jack was also their father; she’d tell Jack, angering their mother. Their discussion had to remain secret.