Chapter 988: Just Wait Patiently

The two women descended the stairs, one after the other. Catalina placed Aubree's thermal container on the table. Before she could speak, Aubree's cold voice cut through the air. "Since Lucian can't eat that, you can finish it for him."

Catalina was momentarily stunned, quickly realizing Aubree was directing her anger at her for earlier comments. Suppressing her feelings, she replied politely, "Thank you, Ms. Pearson. You're too kind."

Aubree glared icily. Her anger intensified with each passing moment. "As soon as I received Mrs. Farwell's call this morning, I had my housekeeper prepare this broth. I brought it hoping to win Lucian's favor, but this woman ruined my efforts! And if I remember correctly, Roxanne and you seemed quite close." Aubree's displeasure deepened. "Do you wish for Roxanne to return?"

The unexpected question momentarily stunned Catalina. She replied, "That's Mr. Farwell's personal matter. As a subordinate, I can't comment."

Aubree snorted. "Good. In the future, stay away when I'm speaking with Lucian."

Catalina offered a bitter smile, her thoughts drifting back to the time when Roxanne was still present. Expecting Aubree to leave, given Lucian's apparent indifference, Catalina was surprised when Aubree remained the entire afternoon. Silence stretched between them.

Only when it was time to collect Estella from school did Catalina feel a measure of relief. She started to ask Aubree if she wished to join her, but Aubree interrupted. "You don't need to go. I'll pick her up." Aubree grabbed her bag and stood.

Catalina hesitated, aware of Estella's dislike for Aubree, but the disparity in their social standing prevented her from objecting. She could only watch Aubree leave.

Upstairs, Lucian, restless from being confined to his room, came downstairs for some air. He found Catalina looking anxious. "Why are you still here? Shouldn't Essie's classes be over by now?" he asked, frowning.

Embarrassed, she explained, "Ms. Pearson… she… I couldn't stop her."

His frown deepened, but he understood Catalina's predicament given Aubree's insistence. "I'll go myself." The thought of Aubree collecting Estella filled him with concern; Estella would likely be upset.

Catalina worried aloud, "But you're not—"

Lucian waved her concerns away. "It's not a problem. I'll have the driver take me."

Relieved, Catalina summoned the driver. At the kindergarten, Archie, Benny, and a worried, tearful Estella waited. The boys reassured her in their small voices, "Don't worry, Essie. We'll bring Mommy so she can treat Mr. Farwell. Just wait patiently."