Chapter 942: Should Not Have Camped Here

“Ms. Jarvis…” Estella, nestled in Roxanne’s embrace, called out weakly. Roxanne stroked her cheek, assuring her, “Come now. You’ll be in less pain after this medicine.”

Estella, trusting Roxanne, leaned forward to drink. A frown immediately creased her face after a sip. Roxanne offered the cup again, but Estella refused. Since childhood, Estella had only taken pills or IVs; traditional medicine was unfamiliar and intensely bitter.

Just as Roxanne worried about how to proceed, Archie entered. “Hurry and drink your medicine, Essie. I’ll give you candy afterward!”

He squatted before Estella, waving a fist. Hesitantly, she looked at him, then chugged the medicine, turning expectantly to Archie.

Archie scratched his nose, embarrassed. “We ate all the candy earlier,” he lied, knowing it was the only way to ensure she finished.

Estella was slightly unhappy, but understanding his motive, she smiled. Archie sighed in relief and checked on Benny, whose medicine was far easier to administer. Archie and Benny, having grown up around the research institute, had a high tolerance for bitter traditional remedies. Many were far more potent than this one.

Roxanne anxiously observed Estella and Benny. “How are you both feeling?” she asked, concerned that nothing immediately seemed amiss.

Benny furrowed his brow. “I felt better right after, but the pain’s returning.”

As he spoke, Estella groaned. Her more severe symptoms, coupled with finishing her medicine first, brought a sharp stomach pain. She endured it, unwilling to worry Roxanne and the boys. But the pain intensified, becoming unbearable.

Roxanne’s heart ached at Estella’s stoicism. “Let me know if you’re hurting. Don’t force yourself,” she said, wrapping her arms around Estella.

Estella clung to Roxanne like a frightened kitten. Roxanne, sensing Estella’s pain, checked on Benny.

Benny forced a smile. “Mommy, I’m fine.”

Roxanne’s heart wrenched. She ruffled his hair. “You don’t need to be strong for me, either.” She gathered Benny close with her other arm.

“We’re driving back to the city now; it’ll take a while. Let me know if either of you are in pain. Don’t hold it in.”

The children nodded. They left the tent without packing, Roxanne only instructing Archie to take the herbs. She hurried into the car and headed toward the city.

However, as she attempted a U-turn, regret washed over her. She shouldn’t have camped here. The road was extremely narrow, and the lack of space prevented her from easily turning the car around.