Chapter 985: Made Up Their Minds

Estella arrived at kindergarten still dejected. Usually, she sought out Archie and Benny at recess. That day, however, they waited for her, then approached her. "Let's play a game, Essie!"

Her eyes welled as she weakly shook her head. Archie and Benny exchanged worried glances. "What's wrong? Did someone bully you?"

Estella shook her head again. Lucian's ill face filled her mind. He's sick…

An idea struck her, and her eyes brightened. She looked at the boys, who still watched her anxiously. Their confusion deepened as she gazed at them thoughtfully.

Then, in her sweet voice, she said, "Daddy…" Her voice trembled. The boys' faces grew serious, their gazes earnest.

Miserably, she continued, "Daddy is sick, but he won't let me stay home to care for him." Archie and Benny's chests tightened at the news of Lucian's illness. "How is he? Why is he suddenly sick?" they asked urgently.

"I think he has the flu. He feels very hot. I wanted to take care of him, but he said I'd catch it and wouldn't let me near him," Estella explained.

Archie and Benny exchanged looks, realizing Lucian had a fever—likely a high one, judging by Estella's distress. Though worried, they sought to comfort her.

"Mr. Farwell is a grown-up; he knows what's wrong. Children like us have weaker immune systems. That's why he didn't let you in," Archie said, stroking her hair gently.

"If worst comes to worst, we can ask Mommy to check on him," Benny added. A twinge of regret followed. He didn't know his mother's intentions. If she refused to see Lucian and Estella, his suggestion would only lead to further disappointment.

He hung his head guiltily. However, Estella's eyes gleamed with hope at the mention of Roxanne.

"Really?"

Meeting her expectant gaze, Benny couldn't bring himself to disappoint her, turning instead to Archie for help. Seeing Benny's plea and Estella's eagerness, Archie nodded.

"Our mommy is an excellent doctor. It's just the flu; he'll be better soon."

A faint smile finally touched Estella's lips. She knew Roxanne was a skilled doctor. The thought of seeing Ms. Jarvis lifted her spirits.

Archie and Benny, however, faced a dilemma. Though concerned, they weren't sure Roxanne would treat Lucian. Refusal would not only invite their mother's suspicion but also Estella's disappointment.

They didn't want to let Estella down. Exchanging a furtive glance, the two boys silently resolved to ensure Roxanne saw Lucian.