Chapter 851: My Stomach Is Hurting

Jack grinned meaningfully. “Don’t thank me yet. I have a favor to ask.”

The children immediately grew wary. Roxanne, equally perplexed, thought, This is only his second time meeting them. What favor could he possibly want? She noticed Jack looking at her, a glance that startled her. He then addressed the children. "I need to borrow your mommy for a while. Is that alright?"

The children exchanged glances. We knew it, they thought. He’s here to take Mommy away again. If Daddy knows about this, we wonder how long their next fight will last. They shook their heads. "Mommy promised to take us out today. Adults shouldn't lie to children!"

Jack looked surprised. Roxanne found herself in a difficult position. She suspected it was work-related, but didn't know the severity.

Jack explained gravely, "I've tried to get more time from Mr. Lacroix. Herbscape Group will be sealed for investigation at ten o'clock. Before that, we need to retrieve essential materials for our research. That's why I came so early."

Roxanne tensed. I didn't notice anything unusual about his arrival or ask him any questions. Why did he waste time explaining all that? Sensing the urgency, she quickly said to her children, "Darlings, I must go now. Stay home and be good. I'll take you out to play later, okay?"

Archie and Benny were reluctant but couldn't refuse a work-related emergency. As Roxanne moved towards the door, their anxiety grew. Benny subtly urged Archie to find a solution. Archie, more composed, glanced at Jack and Roxanne. Seeing they weren't paying attention, he silently signaled Benny to feign illness. He knew Roxanne would prioritize their health.

Benny immediately understood, crouching and clutching his stomach, grimacing. Archie looked at Roxanne, who was near the door, then at Benny, exclaiming, "What's wrong with you, Benny?"

Roxanne stopped and turned. Seeing Benny clutching his stomach, her heart leaped. She rushed to him. "What's the matter? Are you feeling unwell?"

Benny sniffled, looking at her pitifully. "Mommy, my stomach hurts so badly."