Chapter 980: Excuse

Roxanne lowered her head. As long as I maintain distance from Essie and Lucian, Aubree and Sonya won't bother me. Getting close to them might provoke Aubree to even crazier actions. Aubree's ruthless infection of Estella with bacteria sent a chill down Roxanne's spine.

"Have you thought carefully about this lately?" Lucian's sharp interrogation reflected his observation of her strange demeanor. He wouldn't let her hang up so easily. He'd noticed her changed behavior at the campsite and suspected she was concealing something.

His question stirred turmoil within Roxanne, but she remained silent.

"Mr. Farwell, didn't you assign people to watch over me? If they found nothing suspicious, it's impossible for anyone to be involved."

Lucian's brow furrowed. He was silent, the unspoken thought hanging in the air: I also had someone watching Cory, which is why he's disappeared from around Roxanne. But I found nothing suspicious.

Roxanne stated, "I feel nothing unusual. Besides, Estella's back at your place. I think you can dismiss your people." She'd only agreed to the surveillance for Estella's safety. With Estella home, it was no longer necessary.

Lucian felt an instinctive urge to refuse, fearing for Roxanne's safety. But a thought shifted his perspective: Trying to track both sides is futile. I might never find the culprit. Revealing a weakness might be better.

"Okay," Lucian conceded. "I'll have them leave soon."

Roxanne was surprised by his immediate agreement. It took her several seconds to compose herself.

After a long pause, she said, "I'll be busy with work these days and might not be able to care for Essie. Could you help if she looks for me?"

Lucian's brows deepened. That excuse again! She's avoiding me and Essie! Images of Estella's earlier distress fueled his anger.

Roxanne, expecting no response, added, "This project is important. I hope you understand, Mr. Farwell."

The mention of the project triggered thoughts of the Damaris family, the project's leaders. Why did she mention that? She'll be around Jack again! Rage surged through him.

He couldn't contain his frustration, replying curtly, "Yes. I understand you'll be busy. I'll tell Essie and ask her to behave."

He hung up. Roxanne, about to speak, found herself abruptly disconnected. Helpless, she watched her screen go black. I have to keep my distance from Essie. It's the only way I can protect her for now.