Just as Roxanne reached out to take Estella's bag, Lucian retracted his hand with an impassive expression. He turned and walked in front of them. "Let's go."

Roxanne only regained her senses when the children tugged her sleeve. She took their hands and followed Lucian.

Pippa was already waiting at the kindergarten entrance. At the sight of them, she smiled and said to Roxanne, "Ms. Jarvis, it's been a while."

Lysa or Madilyn had recently been bringing the children to school. It was clear some time had passed since Roxanne's last visit.

"It has indeed," Roxanne replied. "Did Archie and Benny give you any trouble?"

Pippa quickly waved her hands. "They're the most obedient students. Nothing to worry about."

Relieved, Roxanne handed the children to Pippa. However, Estella grabbed Roxanne's hand, refusing to let go. She was reluctant to part with Roxanne, as it had been a long time since they'd last seen each other.

Though Roxanne's heart melted at Estella's reluctance, she steeled herself and gently pried open the little girl's fingers. Classes were about to start, and she had to go to work. "Be a good girl, Essie. I have to go to work. Why don't you play with Archie and Benny?"

Displeasure was evident on Estella's face. Seeing this, Archie and Benny quickly took Estella's hands, comforting her. "We'll play with you, Essie. No need to be sad."

Estella wanted to ask Roxanne if she could stay instead of returning overseas, but feared a disappointing answer. As Estella refused to go inside, Roxanne couldn't bear to leave.

Just when she felt at a loss, Lucian discreetly positioned himself between her and Estella, blocking the latter's view.

"Ms. Jarvis and I still have to work. It's time for class; you should go in with your brothers." Lucian leaned forward to help Estella with her bag, placing his hands authoritatively on her shoulders and turning her around.

Only then did Estella trudge into the kindergarten behind Archie and Benny.

Watching the children's backs, Roxanne sighed. She forced a smile, bidding Pippa goodbye before returning to her car.

She had taken only two steps when Lucian's voice rang out. "Are you feeling better?" He had agreed to bring Estella to check on Roxanne's condition, but they hadn't had a chance to speak until now.

Hearing this, Roxanne felt a strange sensation. Lucian's eyes had darkened; he was about to speak when she turned.

"I'm much better. Thank you for your concern, Mr. Farwell." Roxanne's gaze was distant. "Please avoid bringing Essie to my house in the future. It's difficult." She could not say this to Estella, but she could to Lucian.

Lucian's face fell. "Save those words for Essie. You know her condition. When she makes a fuss, I have no choice."

With that, he entered his car before Roxanne could respond.