Estella hadn't slept over in quite some time, so she was thrilled to arrive and immediately began running around with the two boys. They only stopped chasing each other when Roxanne called them to dinner.
After dinner, Roxanne played with the children before asking them to try on their costumes. The kindergarten was an elite establishment; clearly, considerable effort had gone into the costumes for the anniversary celebration. The children instantly transformed into their characters upon donning the garments.
Archie and Benny wore matching costumes in different colors—one blue, one green. Each costume included wings and pointy ears. Despite lacking makeup, the boys looked like elves.
Estella received a long, black witch's dress, hat, and wand. However, her innocent expression made her seem out of place, like an angel accidentally wearing a witch's outfit.
The children were amused by each other's costumes. Tilting their heads, they asked Roxanne, "Where's your costume, Mommy?"
They looked like they'd stepped out of a fairytale. Anxious to see Roxanne's costume, they watched as she retrieved her outfit from her bedroom. She emerged shortly afterward, but to their surprise, she was still in her previous clothes.
"The costume fits me well," Roxanne grinned, noticing their confusion. "I'll wear it tomorrow. All right, kids, it's time for bed. Change back into your clothes now."
Archie, Benny, and Estella reluctantly touched their costumes before heading to their rooms. As Roxanne helped Estella remove her outfit and prepared for a shower, the girl asked, "I wonder what Daddy's costume is?"
Roxanne paused, then smiled. "It'll be a prince's costume, of course. I'm sure you'll see him tomorrow." Estella nodded, seemingly distracted. Roxanne, unsure of the girl's thoughts, decided not to pry and took her to the bathroom.
During the shower, Roxanne told the story of Sleeping Beauty. Estella then asked, "Does Sleeping Beauty like the prince, Ms. Jarvis?"
This question stumped Roxanne. The fairytale showed Sleeping Beauty living with the prince after his kiss, but their relationship remained unclear. Roxanne admitted she didn't know.
Before Roxanne could answer, Estella asked, "How about you, Ms. Jarvis? Do you like Daddy?" Estella continued with pointed questions, leaving Roxanne speechless.
"Can you stop running away from us, Ms. Jarvis?" Estella's voice echoed. "I like you very much, but you don't seem to like Daddy. What did Daddy do wrong?"
After a pause, Roxanne answered hesitantly, "No, he didn't do anything wrong."
"Then why are you avoiding us?" Estella pressed.
Roxanne offered a cursory grin. "I'm not avoiding anyone. I was just caught up with work. Besides, I don't hate your daddy. We've been getting along well lately, haven't we?"