Chapter 749: Fear

When Aubree revealed her true nature and adopted a frightening expression, Estella jumped in fear, wanting to reach Lucian. Aubree, however, seized the girl's wrist, preventing her escape. Staring coldly at Estella, Aubree hissed, "If you don't want to suffer, obey me! Don't provoke me, understand?"

Meanwhile, Lucian was showering when he called Roxanne. Knowing her work ethic, he worried she wouldn't be available when Cayden sent Estella. The little girl would be distraught without Roxanne; hence the call.

Roxanne answered promptly. "What's wrong, Lucian?" she mumbled sleepily.

Amused by her drowsy tone, Lucian apologized softly, "Did I wake you? I'm sorry."

She yawned, sitting up. "It's fine. I should be awake by now; I think I overslept. Why are you calling so early?"

"Essie wants to go to your place. Are you free this morning? If not, she can stay at the company with me." Lucian had learned Roxanne's preferred communication style and adopted a negotiating tone.

Roxanne considered before agreeing. "Okay. I'll be home this morning."

Lucian was surprised by her ready agreement. Raising an eyebrow, he hummed in response, giving her Estella's estimated arrival time before ending the call.

Exiting the bathroom, Lucian saw his daughter still by the door. Aubree was still menacing Estella and, startled by Lucian's appearance, greeted him guiltily, "Lucian."

Remembering her earlier importuning, he coldly asked, "Why are you here?"

Her eyelashes fluttered as she cautiously explained, "I saw Essie, so I came to talk to her." She offered Estella a strained smile. "Isn't that right, Essie?"

Estella, lips pursed, glanced at Aubree before silently running to her father, hiding behind him and clutching his pants.

Lucian's eyes darkened at his daughter's distress. His brief glance at Aubree made her tremble; she clenched her hand, fighting to maintain composure.

Tired of Aubree, he said, "I'll take Essie downstairs later. You can go down first."

Aubree opened her mouth to speak, but hesitated. She glared at Estella before descending the stairs, leaving Lucian and Estella alone.

"What did you two talk about?" He frowned. Her earlier flight to him clearly indicated fear.

The girl, lips pressed together, shook her head, refusing to answer. She resembled her severely autistic self.

Lucian's heart sank. Forgoing further questioning, he silently comforted Estella, caressing her head.