Chapter 1436

“It was Lucian who allowed Essie to stay with me. Therefore, if you wish to take her away, you’ll need his permission first,” Roxanne emphasized, her expression unchanged.

The little girl in her arms immediately added, “I’ll do what Daddy says!”

Sonya watched the united mother and daughter, a throbbing headache forming at her temples. Her son had already stated his position; the outcome of any call was predictable. Roxanne’s refusal to relinquish her granddaughter was clear, as was her son’s support. Sonya felt utterly helpless.

After a period of silence, Roxanne said, “If you don’t intend to call Lucian, please leave now. It’s late, the children are hungry, and I lack the energy to prepare another serving.”

Roxanne set Estella down and gestured for the boys to take her upstairs. Once the children were gone, she said, “Do as you please, then.”

Without waiting for a response, Roxanne went into the kitchen, pointedly ignoring Sonya.

Left alone, Sonya glared at Roxanne’s back as she cooked, took a deep breath, and hissed, “Don’t you dare think you can become part of the Farwell family just because Lucian and Essie like you. It won’t happen while I’m alive. Dream on!”

She stormed out.

Roxanne, her back still to Sonya, remained outwardly calm but inwardly tense. Sonya’s departure brought a sigh of relief. The argument had been unpleasant, but Sonya’s visit served as a reminder that revealing the truth wasn't yet the right time.

Sonya’s hostility toward the boys was evident. Even after Lucian’s public declaration of paternity, she dismissed it as false, making no attempt to verify. She had never accepted Archie and Benny, considering them unworthy children. This stemmed from Roxanne’s abrupt departure, which had created a negative first impression.

Roxanne felt profoundly apologetic, regretting her past actions. She should have been more humble, more considerate of Sonya’s acceptance of the boys. Yet, she couldn’t envision a different approach when Sonya consistently forced them into a corner.

Meanwhile, the children had remained on the balcony. As soon as Sonya’s car left, they ran downstairs.

“Mommy, are you okay?”

Roxanne composed herself, sighed inwardly, and forced a smile, patting their heads. “I’m fine. Did I frighten you?”

The children shook their heads indignantly. “No. We’re just frustrated.”

Archie and Benny looked at her seriously. “We want to protect you!”

Overwhelmed, Roxanne embraced them. “Thank you, darlings. Don’t take Grandma’s words to heart, okay? You’re all my precious darlings.”

They nodded obediently. “We know. You’re the best mommy on earth, too!”

Their understanding filled Roxanne with both sorrow and guilt, prompting a tighter embrace.