Chapter 836: Let Us Go Back

Roxanne sensed Estella's gaze but remained still. Cayden had simply said Lucian was busy with work—a natural occurrence for the CEO of Farwell Group. However, Roxanne felt a subtle implication: that she was neglecting her children due to her own workload. Lucian's morning words echoed in her mind: Is work really that important?

She questioned herself constantly. She worked hard out of passion and a desire to provide for her children. Yet, her intentions seemed to have backfired. Estella, noticing Roxanne's silence, tugged at her clothes. "I don't want to go back," she whispered.

Roxanne focused, meeting the little girl's innocent gaze. Her heart softened, but she had to persuade Estella. "Be a good girl, Essie. It's very late, and Mr. Lawson came all the way to pick you up. You should go back with him."

Estella's reply was heartbreaking. "But we agreed I'd go back if Daddy came. If he doesn't, I'll stay with you."

Roxanne was taken aback. Estella, despite her past struggles with autism, possessed a remarkable eloquence. "Well, Daddy sent Mr. Lawson," Roxanne said, squatting to meet Estella's eyes.

Estella's lips tightened. "No, I want Daddy to pick me up!" she insisted, turning to Cayden with a sorrowful expression.

A warm feeling washed over Cayden as he met Estella's gaze. He hesitated, torn between refusing and defying Lucian's order. He looked pleadingly at Roxanne. "Um, Ms. Jarvis…"

Roxanne offered a reassuring smile, but her gaze toward Estella was firm. "Listen to Mr. Lawson, Essie. It's late, and if you don't go home, Daddy will be worried."

In the past, Roxanne might have disregarded Lucian's wishes. But since that morning's incident and her subsequent reflections on their relationship, she knew she couldn't. She had to send Estella back.

Estella's gaze fell dejectedly. Archie and Benny, observing from the sidelines, chimed in, "Mommy, we'll talk to Essie."

Roxanne, remembering her sons' persuasive abilities, readily agreed. The boys led Estella to the living room, engaging her in hushed conversation while stealing occasional glances at their mother. Soon, Estella nodded resolutely and headed for the door.

"Let's go back, Mr. Lawson!" she announced, clutching Cayden's shirt.

Cayden, surprised by the swift change, paused before bidding farewell to Roxanne and leaving with Estella.