Chapter 982: Estella Was Worried

The next few days, Roxanne didn't send for the children or pick them up due to work. As before, the boys hinted at Estella's unhappiness at not seeing her mother. Though Roxanne's heart ached each time he heard this, he remained silent. One evening, the children waited for their parents after school.

Estella stared at her sons. They knew, without her needing to speak, that her question would be when their mother was coming. Her unwavering gaze these past few days could have burned holes in their faces, but they were powerless without their mother's permission.

Lysa soon appeared in the parent pickup line. Estella looked away, disappointed. Archie and Benny didn't leave immediately, waiting for Lucian's arrival before departing with Lysa.

"Daddy," Estella called out miserably as he approached. Lucian’s approach was slow, his gaze sweeping across the area as he walked toward her.

Seemingly aware of her father's search, Estella mumbled, "Ms. Lane picked up Archie and Benny."

Lucian ceased his search, stopping before her. He took her hand in silence.

After greeting Pippa, Lucian placed Estella in the car. Although holding Estella's hand was normal, something felt different this time. "Daddy, your hand feels hot."

Lucian furrowed his brows and silently released her hand, walking behind her instead. Estella didn't dwell on it and climbed into the car.

Lucian started the engine.

"Daddy, let's go play with Archie and Benny," Estella said a moment later.

Lucian frowned. "Ms. Jarvis is busy lately. Let's wait until she's finished work." Roxanne had told him as much.

The light in Estella's eyes dimmed. "But it's been so long since I've seen Ms. Jarvis..."

Roxanne hadn't contacted him since their last conversation, and Lucian's anger still simmered. He felt only frustration at Estella's mention of Roxanne.

"We'll see her when she's finished," Lucian said, his voice oddly hoarse.

Estella sensed something was wrong with her father but couldn't pinpoint it, remaining quiet.

Reaching the Farwell residence, Lucian exited the car first, then turned to carry Estella out. Carrying her was usually effortless, but he stumbled.

"Daddy!"

Estella was frightened. Once he regained his balance, she looked up at his face, seeing his paleness.

Noticing her worry, Lucian gently patted her head. "I'm fine. I might have caught a cold." He'd felt weak all day, and she'd pointed out the heat of his hand earlier. It must be a cold, he thought.

Lucian didn't worry excessively. He was usually robust; this was just a cold. He was sure a night's rest would cure it.

However, Estella was worried. She'd never seen her father so weak.

"Go on inside." Fearing he might pass on his illness, Lucian didn't take her hand again.

Estella watched his back, worry washing over her.