Chapter 683

Lucian was about to reject Sonya's call when she disconnected. He stood silently for a moment, a scowl etched on his face. Then, he pocketed his phone and headed downstairs. Despite his reluctance to obey his mother, he had no choice after hearing her instructions.

“Mr. Farwell?” Catalina called tentatively, seeing him leave so late.

Lucian nodded. “I need to go somewhere for a while. Make sure to check on Essie periodically.”

Catalina nodded and watched him depart.

Half an hour later, Lucian arrived at the Pearson residence and rang the doorbell. He anticipated a wait, expecting to hear the ongoing argument within. To his surprise, the door opened almost immediately.

“Lucian, what brings you here?” Gina looked surprised and slightly uneasy. “It’s late; I won’t ask you in—”

At that moment, the sound of shattering glass erupted from within, followed by Samuel’s roar. “Since you’re so stubborn, get out! Leave the Pearson residence! I don’t know you!”

A troubled expression crossed Gina’s face. She started to close the door, saying, “You heard that. Samuel’s arguing with Aubree. You should leave.”

This was precisely why Lucian had come. He couldn’t leave given the severity of the situation.

“I know. My mother asked me to check on you all,” he admitted. “Please let me in.”

He stepped forward, intending to enter. Gina hesitated, then stepped aside.

As she watched him ascend the stairs, a sly look flickered across her eyes. She leisurely followed.

They stopped before the study. The door stood wide open, revealing a chaotic scene. Books, pens, and shards of a shattered vase littered the floor. Aubree stood in a corner, her stubborn face tear-streaked. Samuel stood behind the desk, glaring at her.

“How many times have I told you? Had you listened, you wouldn’t be in this mess! Lucian—”

“Samuel!” Gina quickly stepped forward. “Stop! Lucian’s here!”

Samuel remained angry, turning to the doorway. Meeting Lucian’s gaze, he frowned and fell silent. Aubree looked up, surprised to see him. Quickly regaining composure, she averted her gaze, wiping her tears.

“Lucian, why are you here?” Samuel cleared his throat, his voice somber.

Glancing at Aubree, Lucian furrowed his brows. “Mr. Pearson, my mother said you and Aubree were arguing, so I came. What happened?”

Samuel glowered at Aubree, rubbing his temples. “It’s about your engagement. I’ve noticed no progress after all these years, so I advised her to give it up. She refuses to listen.”

Aubree and Gina looked embarrassed by Samuel’s bluntness. Lucian was also slightly surprised. The Pearson family had previously done everything to further this marriage. What had changed?