Estella started to speak, but Roxanne interrupted. "It's late. We need to get up early tomorrow. Let's wash up and go to bed." It was clear Roxanne wanted to avoid the subject.

Estella's eyes darkened, but she obeyed, saying nothing. She slept soundly beside Roxanne, a rare treat. Roxanne, however, couldn't shake Estella's innocent question: "What did Lucian do wrong?"

She could only think of one answer. Besides disliking her, he hadn't seemed to hurt her. Yet, that was enough to keep Roxanne distant. Sonya and Aubree were also watching her, adding to her unease. Roxanne slept poorly, her mind racing, and woke very early.

Estella, meanwhile, slept soundly beside her. Roxanne's gaze softened; her heart ached as she looked at Estella. She didn't understand Estella's dependence after their first meeting, feeling somehow responsible for her inability to be firm with the girl.

"Ms. Jarvis," Estella mumbled, waking in a daze. Roxanne, startled back to reality, touched Estella's small face. "You're awake."

Estella nodded sleepily. Roxanne chuckled. She wanted Estella to sleep longer, but the children's costumes and makeup necessitated waking her.

Estella obediently joined Roxanne in the bathroom. Roxanne applied simple makeup, then added bolder colors and patterns around Estella's eyes, transforming her into a convincing little witch. She braided Estella's curls into a thick braid, secured it, and added a black witch's hat.

"Okay, let's wake Archie and Benny!" Roxanne took Estella to their door. They were already dressed. Seeing the little witch, they exclaimed, "Essie looks like a real witch!"

Estella shyly hid behind Roxanne. Roxanne touched Estella's face and urged the boys, "Your turn. We're short on time!"

Archie and Benny readily complied. After completing their makeup, Roxanne quickly did her own, changed into her costume, and ate breakfast before hurrying to the kindergarten.

Lucian's car was already there. He calmly exited as they approached. He hadn't applied makeup, but wore his costume, his hair styled, and a magnificent sword at his hip, looking like a fairytale prince. Archie, Benny, and Estella were speechless.