In the past, Roxanne, Archie, and Benny always ate meals together, occasionally joined by Madilyn. However, this was their first meal with Lucian. Archie and Benny felt a surge of mixed emotions.

Lucian paused, turning to meet Estella's glistening eyes. He then glanced at the place setting beside them. His eyes glinted with emotion. In fact, the four of them were a family. He hesitated, finding it odd to sit there, but before he knew it, he was seated at the table.

The previously cheerful atmosphere had become tense. He wondered if he was the cause. Archie and Benny fell silent, eating quietly. Because the boys weren't talking, Estella lost her appetite, picking at her food.

"Essie, is something wrong?" Roxanne asked gently, noticing the change in her behavior. Estella quickly shook her head. She liked everything Roxanne made; she just wasn't hungry.

Benny, knowing Estella couldn't speak, explained, "Essie, like us, doesn't like carrots and peppers. She always picks them out at kindergarten."

Roxanne smiled kindly. "I'll help you pick them out, okay?"

Estella smiled and nodded. Roxanne removed the carrots and peppers from Estella's plate, placing them on her own. Estella picked up her spoon again.

Just as she was about to eat, something tugged her hand, causing her to cry out in pain. She stopped, lifted her head, and looked to Roxanne for help.

Roxanne immediately put down her utensils. "What's wrong?"

Estella bit her lip, trying not to cry, and showed Roxanne her hand. Everyone gasped. Estella's fair skin revealed a bright red mark.

Roxanne frowned. "What happened?"

Estella remained silent. Roxanne looked at Lucian. He felt a pang of guilt under her questioning gaze, but remained outwardly calm. "Did you hurt yourself throwing things earlier?"

Roxanne's worry intensified. "Throwing things?"

Lucian explained, "Essie doesn't know how to express her emotions. Sometimes, when she's angry, she throws things." He avoided saying "autism," unsure of her reaction.

Surprise flickered in Roxanne's eyes as she looked at Estella. "Did you hurt yourself?"

Estella nodded hesitantly. Lucian frowned. "Why didn't you tell me?"

Estella shuddered, moving closer to Roxanne, clearly frightened. Roxanne glared at Lucian. The child's injured! she thought. How can he speak to her like that?

"Does it hurt a lot?" Roxanne held Estella's hand, gently massaging it. Estella nodded.

"You'll be fine. I'll get some medicine." Roxanne released Estella's hand. "Keep her company," she instructed her sons. "I'll get the first-aid kit."

The boys nodded and began telling Estella stories.