Estella blinked, and her sobs subsided. Still in disbelief, she pursed her lips. She had overheard Lucian speaking to her teacher, and the two boys, Archie and Benny, were absent from kindergarten that day.

How could this be such a coincidence?

Lucian sensed her doubt, which made him feel even more helpless. “There’s no need for me to lie to you. They weren’t at school today because they were unwell. You’ll see them tomorrow.”

Estella continued to purse her lips aggrievedly. Suspicion was written all over her face.

Lucian was at a loss. “How can I make you believe me?” He never expected Archie and Benny to hold such an important place in Estella’s heart—so important that she didn't believe his words.

Estella hesitated, then allowed Catalina to put her down. She picked up a small notebook from the pile of papers and scribbled something while sobbing. Her squiggly writing read: Confirm!

She wanted to hear the boys themselves say they weren't expelled and that she would see them in kindergarten again.

Lucian understood. She wanted to go to Roxanne's house and confirm with the boys. The thought made his head ache.

Seeing Lucian's lack of response, Estella pursed her lips and gripped her notebook tightly. She looked as if she were about to burst into tears again.

Recalling Estella's earlier distress, Lucian sighed and said, “Okay. I’ll take you to them now.”

Estella froze, blinking in disbelief.

Lucian nodded.

She quickly packed her bag, slung it over her shoulder, and walked toward him, still sniffling from her earlier crying.

Lucian was speechless at the speed of Estella's change in mood. He had no choice but to take her to find Roxanne.

Roxanne was having dinner with Archie and Benny when the doorbell rang. Thinking it was Madilyn, arriving for a free meal, Roxanne opened the door immediately.

Her eyes widened in disbelief at the sight of them.

“Are you two… Essie, are you here to play with Archie and Benny?” That was the only explanation she could think of.

A tall, slender Lucian stood at the door, holding Estella’s hand. He wore only a shirt, sleeves rolled slightly up.

Estella lifted her head. Roxanne wondered if the wind had reddened Estella’s eyes and nose; she looked quite pitiful.

Seeing Roxanne, Estella’s sadness resurfaced. She sniffed and pursed her lips, on the verge of tears again.

Lucian noticed his daughter's change in demeanor, but he didn't know how to answer Roxanne.

What am I supposed to say? My daughter got angry because I told the kindergarten to expel your sons? And now she insists on confirming the reason for their absence?

He didn't think it necessary to repeat the explanation; he'd already dismissed the idea.

The atmosphere at the doorway was awkward.

Roxanne eyed the pair, who seemed unwilling to speak. Puzzled, she looked down at Estella. “Essie, is something wrong? It’s quite late.”

Pursing her lips, Estella nodded and pulled away from Lucian’s hand.

He could only let her go.

Tears immediately streamed down Estella’s cheeks, and she approached Roxanne, extending her arms for a hug.

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