Chapter 261

Lucian's phone suddenly rang, breaking the room's silence.

Roxanne instinctively glanced at the lit screen, but quickly looked away when she saw the caller ID.

The phone rang for a while before Lucian turned to answer it. He glanced at Roxanne before picking up the call by the window. "What is it?"

Aubree's voice, filled with complaint, came from the other end.

"I heard Essie's kindergarten organized a tree-planting event. Did you attend it with her?"

"Yes," Lucian replied coldly.

Aubree's expression was gloomy. "Essie dislikes crowds. She's never been to events like this, so why did she go?"

Not wanting to argue, Lucian said, "Essie wanted to go, so I took her." He had no intention of explaining further.

Aubree clenched her fists, suppressing her rage. "Why didn't you invite me? Essie's a girl; it's inconvenient for you to care for her alone. I could have helped!"

Lucian looked at Roxanne playing with Estella and snapped impatiently, "Why would I? The school asked parents to attend. Who are you?"

Aubree was silent for a few seconds before replying awkwardly, "E-everyone knows we're getting married. Besides, I've looked after Essie for so many years—"

"I'm hanging up now," Lucian interrupted, ending the call before Aubree could continue.

The room was quiet enough for Roxanne to overhear the conversation. Aubree's words left her conflicted. Even though Lucian cut her off, Roxanne knew what Aubree was about to say: that she would eventually become Essie's mother. Since their marriage was public knowledge, no one would question her attendance at the event as Essie's parent.

Feeling flustered, Roxanne patted Estella's head. "It's late, Essie. You need to wake up early tomorrow, so go to bed."

Estella nodded and climbed into bed. Roxanne nodded at Lucian before tucking Archie and Benny in.

Meanwhile, at the Pearson residence, Aubree stared at her phone's blank screen, stunned by Lucian's response. Rage filled her face as she swept everything from the table in frustration.

I deliberately asked him why he went with Essie. He brushed me off, just as I expected. But it's because of that bitch! That event was for parents to bond with their children; she'd definitely be there with her two brats. Lucian went to Bellridge because of her, so it's no surprise he attended the event because of her. I can't let them spend more time together! I can't just watch that bitch get closer to Lucian! Even if he rejects her, I have to be there to see it!

The thought of Lucian and Roxanne together drove Aubree mad with rage.

(Note: I have removed the promotional text. The use of "*" around certain words is retained as a stylistic choice to preserve emphasis but should be considered for consistency.)