Chapter 984: None Other Than Roxanne

Just as Estella carried the water, Catalina exited the room, closing the door behind her. Estella quickened her pace, reaching the doorway and glaring at Catalina.

“I want to give this to Daddy!” Catalina turned to find the sulking girl. A resigned look crossed her face. Mr. Farwell enjoys giving me challenges like these, doesn't he? she thought.

“Ms. Estella, Mr. Farwell isn't feeling well; he’s gone back to sleep,” Catalina said, avoiding Estella's gaze. She couldn't bear to lie to the child.

Seeing her father was asleep, Estella stared at the water in disappointment, silent.

Catalina checked the time. Sonny wouldn't arrive for a while, so she took Estella back to her room to rest.

Half an hour later, Sonny entered the mansion with his medical kit. Catalina had already coaxed Estella to sleep and led Sonny to Lucian's bedroom.

Lucian was asleep again.

"Mr. Farwell didn't seem well when he came home today," Catalina said, watching Lucian worriedly.

Sonny nodded and examined Lucian. Lucian awoke, startled by the doctor's movements. Recognizing Sonny, he rasped, "What is it?"

"You're ill from overwork," Sonny explained. "Something's bothering you, worsening your flu-like symptoms. You need complete rest."

Something's bothering me...

Both Lucian and Catalina frowned. Lucian knew the source of his distress: Roxanne's desire to sever their ties once more. Catalina was surprised. She knew Lucian rarely showed his emotions, making this illness a first for her. She wondered what troubled him.

Sonny offered an IV drip, which Lucian refused. After prescribing medication, Sonny left.

"How's Essie?" Lucian asked.

"She fussed for a while, but she's asleep now." Estella had indeed protested seeing her father, but Catalina had prevented her from entering his room. Eventually, exhaustion claimed the girl.

Lucian relaxed, closing his eyes wearily. Perhaps his illness amplified his fatigue. He fell asleep instantly.

Catalina quietly left the room. That night, she slept little, checking on Lucian periodically. She'd assumed a simple cold, expecting improvement after rest. However, Lucian still had a high fever the next morning.

Estella, upon waking, demanded to see her father. Catalina, having no choice, complied. Lucian remained asleep. Estella watched him, tears welling in her eyes; it was the first time she'd seen him so ill.

"Mr. Farwell instructed me to send you to school if he's still unwell tomorrow," Catalina said, ruffling Estella's hair. "I'll care for Mr. Farwell when I return."

Estella was hesitant but knew she couldn't disobey her father, especially with him ill. She didn't want to add to his worries, so she nodded obediently.