Chapter 989: What Brings You Here

Estella nodded obediently at Archie and Benny. “Essie!” Their cheerful chatter was interrupted by a distant call.

The three children turned in unison. Lucian’s absence ruled out his collecting Estella. Catalina seemed the likely candidate, but their surprise deepened into frowns as they saw who approached: Aubree.

Ignoring Archie and Benny, Aubree strode directly to Estella. “Essie, your father is still sick, so I came to pick you up.”

Aubree extended a hand. Estella pursed her lips, a reluctant look crossing her face as she hid her hands behind her back.

Aubree frowned, admonishing, “Essie.” Sensing the threat, Estella darted behind the boys. She’d rather go with Lysa to Roxanne’s than return with Aubree, remembering a past car ride where Aubree had spanked her. Never again, she thought. Archie and Benny protectively shielded her.

“Ms. Pearson, we’ll see Essie home later,” Archie stated.

Aubree, glancing at the boys, was reminded of Roxanne. A smile touched her lips, but her eyes darkened. “Since I’m here, there’s no need to trouble anyone.”

Estella remained hidden. Pippa intervened, hurrying to diffuse the tension.

“Ms. Pearson, since Essie is unwilling, I’ll send her home later.”

Aubree smiled at Pippa. “No need. A misunderstanding, I’m sure Essie and I can resolve it.” She glanced at the children. “You two leave us. I need to speak with Essie.”

Archie and Benny looked hesitantly at Estella, who shook her head.

“Essie doesn’t want to talk to you,” they announced.

Aubree’s expression soured. Little shits! she thought. I was hoping to score points with Lucian. Why is she making this so difficult?

“Your father will worry if you’re late,” Aubree said, suppressing her anger. “He’s still unwell. Essie, be a good girl, and don’t cause him trouble.”

The mention of her father made Estella hesitate, stepping from behind the boys. But seeing Aubree’s face, memories of her harsh treatment flooded back. Worry and fear overwhelmed her; tears welled in her eyes.

Aubree, ignoring Estella’s distress, reached for her hand.

Then Pippa’s voice cut through the tension. “Mr. Farwell, what brings you here?”

The children, surprised, looked from Aubree to Lucian, who stood before them, casually dressed but with a serious expression, perhaps exacerbated by illness.