Chapter 934: What She Was Capable Of

Aubree narrowed her eyes, subconsciously tightening her grip on the vial she'd obtained from the man, as she studied the figures. Roxanne remained unaware of her presence.

The afternoon sun warmed the land after lunch. The children, far from sleepy, were flushed from the heat. Roxanne surveyed her surroundings before leading them to the waterfall, where a cool breeze offered instant relief. Even Roxanne sighed contentedly.

Suddenly, Estella ran and hid behind her mother. Roxanne, confused, looked down. Archie and Benny, barefooted in the stream, were splashing water at the little girl. Noticing Estella's hiding place, the boys stopped, feeling guilty.

Roxanne, having earlier observed the area, noted the slow, shallow flow of the water, reaching only the boys' calves. Knowing they could swim, she wasn't worried about an accident. She simply directed Estella to stand beside her.

"You're doomed for splashing Essie!" she declared, then squatted and splashed the boys. Reassured by their mother's lack of anger, they resumed their play, soon drawing Estella into their fun.

Roxanne's energy, however, was limited. After a while, she retreated to watch and photograph the children. The atmosphere was bright and cheerful; Estella’s smile never wavered, and the children’s laughter echoed through the waterfall, a sound that made Roxanne smile too.

Meanwhile, Aubree had been waiting by the road. Seeing the family wasn't returning to the tent soon, she left her car and cautiously approached, moving silently.

Reaching the tent, she spotted several cups on the ground—Roxanne's provision for the thirsty children after their barbecue. Some water remained. A menacing glint crossed Aubree's eyes.

She glanced toward the waterfall, confirming no one was watching, then took a deep breath and looked at the vial. In a swift, decisive movement, she opened it and poured its contents into the cups.

Within minutes, her task was complete. The water appeared unchanged, and she was confident no one would detect her tampering. Her gaze was icy as she regarded the happy group. This time, she was determined to show them what she was capable of.

Aubree quietly left the tent and returned to her car, but didn't drive away immediately. She wanted to watch Roxanne and the children drink the water.

Several flashes of light erupted in the woods after Aubree entered her car. A private detective, photographing her from the moment she'd left her car, had documented her entire actions. He examined the clear photographs, a smile curving his lips. These pictures provided the leverage he needed to ensure Aubree paid him.