Chapter 750: Warm Smile

Not long after, Lucian brought Estella downstairs. Aubree was already seated at the dining table. Seeing them, she suppressed her displeasure, smiled, and gestured to the empty seat beside her. “Come over here, Essie. Let’s eat breakfast together.”

She’d hoped her earlier threat would ensure the girl's obedience. Instead, Estella ignored her completely. Clinging to her father's shirt, she followed him to the table, where he seated her beside him.

Aubree's expression froze. "You're heading to work soon, Lucian," she said after a moment, refusing to be ignored. He nodded indifferently.

A slight easing of Aubree's rage followed his response. Smiling, she offered, “Then let me take care of Essie today! I’ll make sure she has tons of fun!”

Estella eyed her cautiously before resuming her silent eating. Aubree recalled the girl's previous silence during periods of poor health, but now, she perceived it as blatant disrespect. Even threats proved ineffective.

Aubree's anger intensified. She blamed Roxanne. If not for that woman, she thought, this brat wouldn't defy me. She thinks she has someone supporting her now. It's all because of that woman! I lost my best chance with the Farwell family because of her!

Her resentment extended to Estella. I remember Lucian's awkward relationship with that woman upon her return. This brat improved their relationship! Despite my kindness, she clings to that woman! If not for her, that woman wouldn't have had so many opportunities with Lucian!

Consumed by these thoughts, Aubree glared at Estella with hatred.

Feeling the hostility, Estella put down her spoon and tugged at her father's sleeve, signaling her desire to leave for Roxanne's.

Aubree quickly plastered on a warm smile. Lucian glanced at her. “There’s no need. Essie will be with me today.”

Without giving Aubree a chance to respond, he stood, placing his fork down. “We’re leaving now, Essie.” Estella promptly rose, took her father's hand, and left the mansion with him.

Aubree watched them go with a gloomy expression. After a moment, she stood. No, I must follow them and see where they are going.

“Ms. Pearson!” Catalina exclaimed, surprised to see Aubree leaving her barely-touched meal. Without looking back, Aubree replied, “I’m going home.”

She left the mansion, timing her exit perfectly. Lucian’s car was just departing. Quickly, she hailed a taxi and instructed the driver to follow them.