Chapter 852: Exposed

Roxanne knitted her brows, staring at Benny in confusion. He had been fine; why the sudden stomach ache? He seemed to be in considerable pain.

Archie, standing nearby, sensed his mother's doubt. His eyes gleamed, then he hurriedly frowned. "Perhaps we caught a cold sleeping last night. My stomach's a little upset, too."

Roxanne, convinced, turned apologetically to Jack. "I'm sorry, Mr. Damaris. The children aren't feeling well. I need to check on them."

Jack assessed Archie and Benny before grinning kindly. "Their health is paramount. I don't mind waiting. Summon me if you need assistance."

Jack's medical skill rivaled Roxanne's, and his experience with pediatric consultations was extensive. He was highly knowledgeable in diagnosing children's ailments.

Archie and Benny exchanged a panicked glance at Jack's offer. They'd almost forgotten his medical expertise. Their charade would be exposed if he examined them, and Roxanne's displeasure was easily anticipated.

As the boys pondered how to refuse Jack's kindness, Roxanne said, "It's fine. I'm more familiar with their conditions. Please wait in the living room, Mr. Damaris. I'll be down shortly."

Jack nodded indifferently and resumed his seat. The boys breathed a collective sigh of relief as Roxanne declined on their behalf, then followed her upstairs.

A helpless look crossed Roxanne's face as she led her sons into the bedroom. She'd noticed the shift in their expressions when Jack offered help; she suspected they were lying.

Still worried, Roxanne had the boys lie down and began her examination. "Can you show me where your stomach hurts?" she asked Benny, gazing at him with concern.

Of course, Benny felt no pain. With no recourse, he braced himself and gestured wildly. "Everywhere hurts!" he wailed, then pitifully asked, "Mommy, am I very sick?"

Roxanne felt utterly helpless. If his claims were true, he would have been gravely ill long ago. Yet, exposing him now might not teach him a lesson; he'd likely resort to this trick again.

Deciding on a course of action, she feigned seriousness, taking his wrist and checking his pulse, pressing various points on his stomach, inquiring about symptoms.

Benny found her touch ticklish, but stifled his laughter, complaining that every spot was painful. Roxanne found his effort pitiable. Finally, she stopped, loosening her grip while maintaining a grave expression.

"Mommy..." Archie called out cautiously, sensing her unusual demeanor, believing she'd discovered their lie.

Roxanne furrowed her brow, looking at Benny worriedly. "There's a chance you have acute appendicitis. You'll need surgery immediately. Don't be afraid; I'll take you to the hospital now."

She then pretended to lift Benny into her arms. The color drained from Benny's face at the mention of surgery.