Chapter 1406

“What are you trying to say?” Sonya’s voice held outrage at her son’s implied ridicule.

“Roxanne may be Essie’s birth mother, but I’m her biological grandmother! How would my visit agitate her? Yes, I realize I used the wrong methods in raising Essie, but I’ve apologized and promised to change!”

Lucian pinched the bridge of his nose, his frustration mounting. “I’m glad you acknowledge your responsibility for the state of your relationship with Essie.” He didn't know the specifics of his mother's actions, but he’d learned from his experience with Aubree that details were less important than Estella’s well-being. Therefore, he would keep those Estella resented away from her until she forgave them.

Sonya’s exasperation grew. “No matter what, I’ll never hurt Essie!”

Lucian nodded. “I know, but you lack patience. If you truly care about her, you should understand her needs.” Sonya knew those needs; Estella was clinging to Roxanne. That was the source of her distress.

Then, an idea struck her, and she suppressed her anger. “Since you don’t want me interfering with Essie’s life, let’s talk about the Pearson family.”

Lucian’s face darkened. “What about them?”

Sonya, her expression awkward and her tone dissatisfied, said, “Aren’t you being too harsh? Our families have a long history, and Old Mr. Pearson is still your benefactor. Is it necessary to utterly destroy them when a lesson would suffice?”

Lucian’s reply was firm. “They brought this upon themselves.”

Sonya frowned. “They made a mistake, but your ruthlessness sends the wrong message to other families. Who will work with us now? You’ve ended the engagement with Aubree; she can’t harm Essie anymore. That should be enough!” (The unspoken truth lingered: Sonya still intended to manipulate Aubree.) The potential for future alliances worried her; this was her reason for visiting Lucian.

Lucian's expression changed drastically at her plea for mercy. “Before they harmed Essie, they should have considered the consequences. And I don't believe the lesson I've taught them is sufficient.” Even Sonya shuddered at his rage.

Undeterred, she continued, “Don’t forget Aubree waited for you for years, and her feelings are genuine. She just chose the wrong—”

Lucian cut her off. “Don’t mention that wicked woman again. If this is all, you can leave. I’m tired.”

He left without allowing her a response, leaving Sonya speechless.