Ch. 1081..1090
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1081 Certain Matters Cannot Be Forced
Meanwhile, on the way back to the Farwell residence, Lucian would glance in the rear-view mirror intermittently. He saw Estella sitting obediently in the back and would sniffle once in a while. However, she did not look as if she would cry again.
She was reacting very differently from when she previously left Roxanne. Lucian couldn’t help but be unsettled by her behavior, thinking that she had suffered some kind of shock.
A short while later, he said in a grim voice, “Go ahead and cry if you feel like it.” Estella pouted as she lowered her gaze and fiddled with her fingers.
Hearing no response, Lucian was about to turn around when suddenly her voice rang out. “Daddy, did Ms. Jarvis really want to hit you just now?”
Estella tilted her head as she looked to Lucian for answers. After all, she had been dwelling on the topic for the entire journey.
Although Ms. Jarvis was angry at Daddy at times, she has never hit him before. It must have been a misunderstanding!
Lucian recalled the kiss on the balcony. Now that he thought about it, he couldn’t help but regret his impulsiveness.
However, he still couldn’t shake the anger he felt over how she saw Jack.
While he was lost in his thoughts, Estella continued, “Why did she try to scare you this way?”
From her perspective, Roxanne was just trying to frighten Lucian even though there was no chance of success given how tall and well-built her father was.
Lucian cocked a brow at her words, and a headache set in.
From the rearview mirror, he could see the earnest look in her eyes.
Upon deliberation, he answered grimly, “It’s true that there’s been a misunderstanding, but it isn’t what you think.”
Estella’s curiosity intensified. “Then what is it?”
Of course, Lucian would not tell her about the kiss. “It’s a private matter between Ms. Jarvis and me.”
Hearing that, Estella accepted the fact that Lucian would never tell her.
After a brief silence, she asked again. “In that case, Daddy, please don’t be mad at Ms. Jarvis anymore, all right?”
Furrowing his brows, Lucian pondered upon the matter. In the end, he decided to use the opportunity to break the news to Estella that he and Roxanne would never be together.
It was imperative to do so because Estella had yet to give up.
The longer he allowed her to have expectations, the greater her disappointment would be in the future.
Lucian threw Estella a glance through the rearview mirror. “I’m not mad at her.”
Estella’s eyes lit up.
Then she heard her father continue, “After all, we’ll probably not see each other again.”
Estella was momentarily stunned. Her eyes gradually darkened. “Why?”
Worried that the news would come as a shock, Lucian said in a softer tone, “Ms. Jarvis has her own family to attend to, and the boys have their own father. It wouldn’t be appropriate for us to keep bothering them.”
Besides, I will have my own family in the future too.
“But…”
Estella gave Lucian a defiant look.
Didn’t Daddy say that he would pursue Mrs. Farwell previously?
“I didn’t give the matter proper thought before. Now that I have, I realized that there are certain matters that can’t be forced.”
Lucian preempted what she was about to say.
Once he finished, he looked into the rearview mirror to observe her response.
All he saw was a sad frown on her face.
The fact that she didn’t cry at all came as a surprise to him.
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1082 I Will Not See Her Ever Again
Upon hearing her father’s words, Estella pursed her lips tightly as she desperately held back her tears.
I can’t cry! If Daddy and Ms. Jarvis have fallen out with each other, I will definitely not be able to see her anymore. It’s up to me alone to help them reconcile.
In that instant, Estella remembered the boys’ advice to her—strive to grow stronger. Throughout the journey home, Estella did not shed a single tear.
When Lucian carried her out of the car upon their arrival, he was surprised by the look on her face. Despite looking as if she would burst into tears any second, she was tenaciously holding them back.
Lucian wondered what had caused such a big change in her. When he tried to hold her hand, expecting her to refuse, Estella obediently let him hold it.
Filled with complicated emotions, Lucian led Estella back into the mansion. The moment they entered, they saw Sonya, whose face was contorted, seated on the couch.
“If you had come back any later, I would’ve gone to pick Essie up myself!”
Sonya glared at her son before shifting her gaze toward Estella. “Essie, come here and give Grandma a hug.”
Even though Estella had changed a lot, the fear she had for Sonya didn’t diminish one bit.
Sonya’s words caused her to hide meekly behind Lucian.
Lucian called out to Catalina, “Take Essie upstairs.”
Catalina let out a quiet sigh of relief before leaning over to hold Estella’s hand.
Sympathizing with the pitiful look on Estella’s face, Catalina urged her in a gentle tone, “Let’s go, Ms. Estella.”
Estella grabbed Catalina’s hand without any hesitation and leaned against the latter for support as they headed upstairs together.
The sight of the two leaving silhouettes only served to intensify the scowl on Sonya’s face.
“For goodness’ sake, I’m Essie’s grandma. Why has it come to this? It’s one thing for her to be close to Roxanne; and now, she’s even closer to the help than me! Look at how Roxanne has brainwashed her!”
The expressionless Lucian sat down in the armchair beside her before pouring each of them a glass of water, while Sonya watched him with a sullen look on her face.
“Essie was raised by Catalina, so it’s normal for Essie to feel attached to her.” Lucian spoke in a grim voice after having a drink.
Sonya sneered, “What about Roxanne? Has she ever spent a second raising her?”
Lucian calmly locked gazes with his mother. “There’s no need to mention her anymore. Essie will not see her ever again.”
Sonya knitted her brows in disbelief. “What did you just say?”
Despite my repeated persuasion, I have failed to get them to stay away from Roxanne, so what’s going on now? Why is he saying that they won’t be seeing each other ever again out of nowhere?
Retracting his gaze, Lucian repeated in an indifferent tone, “I have made it clear to her that we have nothing to do with each other going forward. There will be no reason to see each other anymore.”
Only after Sonya heard her son’s firm answer did she breathe a sigh of relief.
“I told you from the very beginning to keep your distance from her. If only you had listened to me early on, Essie wouldn’t have turned out this way!”
Lucian’s brows furrowed. “Stop bringing her up already and don’t link her to Essie anymore!”
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1083 Spend More Time Together
Sonya scrutinized him for a while, for she knew how enamored her son was with Roxanne. In fact, both of them had argued frequently over the latter.
Now that Lucian was speaking so coldly about Roxanne, Sonya couldn’t help but suspect that this was all just an act.
It wasn’t until it dawned on her he was telling the truth that a smile descended upon her face. “It’s still not too late to change your mind now.” Lucian simply threw her a glance without comment.
“Now that you have come to your senses, you might as well continue the engagement with Aubree since it has yet to be canceled. Just remember not to let her down again,” Sonya said patiently. “I don’t deny that she has made many mistakes in the past, but now that she’s sorry and has turned over a new leaf, you shouldn’t hold a grudge against her. She’s not someone bad at heart.”
Lucian frowned at Sonya’s attempt to help Aubree. “I promised Essie to only marry the person she likes.”
Surprisingly, Sonya was unfazed by the comment. “That’s easy. Just let Essie spend more time with Aubree. Aubree is fond of her. It’s just that you never allowed them the opportunity to interact with each other.”
Lucian still felt hesitant, for he hadn’t forgotten how Aubree had struck Estella the last time.
“I know that you’re still concerned about what Aubree did, but she did it for Essie’s own good. She regretted what she did after that and wanted to make it up to Essie, but she didn’t get the chance to do so. No matter what, Aubree has waited years for you, and her feelings for you are true. She will definitely not mistreat Essie out of respect for you.”
The words left Lucian no room to refute them. It was true that his engagement with Aubree had gone on for six years.
Regardless of how he tried to delay it, she had never once mentioned annulling the engagement.
As for her feelings, Lucian was well aware of them. He just wasn’t bothered about anyone else when he only had eyes for Roxanne.
Now that they no longer had a future together, he figured that it would be worth giving Aubree a shot.
With that thought in mind, Lucian nodded at his mother. “I know. I’ll give it some serious consideration.”
Sonya was about to continue convincing him when she was caught by surprise by how readily he acceded to her wishes.
It even took her a few seconds to regain her senses. “I’m glad you have seen the light.”
“But whether the engagement will turn into a wedding will still depend on Essie.”
Given that he had let her down once, there was no way he was going to marry a woman she disapproved of.
Sonya, despite his words, was just glad that Lucian no longer reacted stubbornly when it came to Roxanne.
She was also confident in Aubree.
“Fine. I believe Aubree will grow on Essie once both of them spend more time together.”
Lucian remained silent, while Sonya was already brimming with elation.
Her initial intention of coming over was to see whether Lucian had brought Estella back.
Little did she expect such a delightful turn of events.
“All right, I’m going off now. You should go talk to Essie.” Before Sonya left in satisfaction, she reminded him, “Now that you’ve made up your mind, remember to spend some time with Aubree and allow her to interact with Essie. Don’t repeat your past mistake of hurting her.”
Lucian nodded flatly in acknowledgment.
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1084 Do Not Kick Up a Fuss
After escorting Sonya out, Lucian headed upstairs to check on Estella since she was obviously out of sorts upon returning home.
Catalina was by Estella’s side upstairs. At the sight of Lucian, she prudently came out of the bedroom. Standing by the bedroom door, Lucian asked in concern, “How’s Essie?”
Catalina replied in a low voice, “She’s been behaving. I’m not sure what’s going through her mind, but she didn’t cry or throw a tantrum.” Lucian nodded in acknowledgment before entering the bedroom.
It was just as Catalina had said. Estella looked distracted and didn’t even notice him coming in. Lucian walked up to her and gave her hair a gentle tousle. “What are you thinking about?”
Estella was racking her brains on how to placate her father so that he would continue pursuing Roxanne. Looking up frantically, she greeted him, “D-Daddy.”
Lucian sat down beside her. “Are you angry that I brought you home from Ms. Jarvis’?”
Estella nodded with her lips pursed. “Then why aren’t you crying?” Lucian arched a brow. “Because—”
She was just about to speak when she realized that her plan would fail if she were to share it with Lucian. In fact, he might even stop her from keeping in touch with the brothers.
Estella quickly covered her mouth with her hands, refusing to say another word. “You can’t tell me?” A hint of suspicion flashed across Lucian’s eyes.
Hands over her mouth, Estella nodded vigorously. Lucian didn’t pursue the matter. Instead, he inquired about her relationship with Sonya.
“Anyway, why are you mad at Grandma?” It was then that Estella finally removed her hands.
I have not told him about how Grandma threatened me. On top of that, I’m angry at Grandma for stopping me from spending time together with Ms. Jarvis and the brothers. Let’s not forget that she also objected to Daddy and Ms. Jarvis being together.
The more she thought about it, the angrier she was. Taking in Estella’s expression, Lucian was all the more confused. It seems Essie harbors a deep grudge against Mom.
Having finally decided on what to say, Estella said in a piping voice, “Because… Grandma is very fierce!” She couldn’t have sounded any more pitiful.
The answer didn’t come as a surprise to Lucian, for he was well aware of Sonya’s attempts of trying to keep Estella and him away from Roxanne all this while.
However, he could still tell that wasn’t the only reason for Estella’s resentment toward Sonya.
He didn’t inquire further since Estella didn’t seem keen on talking about it.
All that mattered was for her to calm down.
He gradually got to his feet and stroked her head. “I understand. I’ll talk to Grandma about it.”
Just as he was about to leave, Lucian turned around after remembering something. “For the next two days, I’ll get Ms. Pearson to spend time with you. Remember to behave and don’t kick up a fuss.”
Lucian closed the door, giving Estella no chance to protest.
Inside the bedroom, Estella’s face fell.
I only want Daddy to be with Ms. Jarvis and not that nasty woman.
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1085 Devoid of Peace
Upon emerging from Estella’s room, Lucian went straight to his study. He had initially planned to do some work but felt restless as Sonya’s words continued to linger in his mind.
It’s true that Essie does need a mom. If Aubree can really change her attitude toward Essie so that Essie accepts her, I don’t mind marrying her.
After going through his troubled thoughts, Lucian gave Aubree a call. Aubree had just gotten off the phone with Sonya and was waiting excitedly for Lucian’s call.
Little did she expect him to ring her in less than ten minutes. She tried her best to regain her composure before answering her phone. “Lucian, I’m surprised that you called.”
She suppressed the delight in her voice so that she sounded a lot calmer. Lucian didn’t suspect anything at all. “Are you free?”
Sensing something was up, Aubree felt her throat tighten. “Yes… What’s up?” “If you have time, come over to the manor for a chat.” Lucian spoke in a monotonous tone.
His invitation caused Aubree to clench her phone as she agreed without hesitation, “Sure, I’ll go over right away!” Lucian hummed in acknowledgment before ending the call.
Thereafter, he massaged his forehead and stood before the full-length window. Aubree’s response had given him much food for thought.
It seems she still has feelings for me. However, it’s still too early to say if Essie will accept her.
After quickly getting herself ready, Aubree anxiously got the driver to send her to the Farwell residence.
The car gradually came to a halt at the entrance in less than half an hour. Alighting nervously, she then gave herself a look in the mirror before stepping out and ringing the doorbell.
Inside the mansion, Catalina reported Aubree’s arrival to Lucian after seeing who it was through the intercom. “Mr. Farwell, Ms. Pearson is here. Shall I let her in?”
Lucian turned to look at her. “I told her to come.” Catalina’s heart sank. She snuck a glance at Lucian before averting her gaze quickly. “A-All right… I’ll go get the door.”
Aubree waited for a long while at the manor entrance before the main gate was finally opened.
With a discreet knit of her brows, Aubree easily guessed who it was who took such a long time to open the gate.
“Ms. Pearson,” Catalina greeted as Aubree strode in.
Aubree glared at her and replied in a hostile tone, “Catalina, don’t forget that I’m a guest of Lucian!”
Her words also served as a warning.
Catalina hung her head low and informed Aubree in a cordial tone, “Mr. Farwell is waiting for you upstairs.”
Aubree brushed Catalina’s shoulder forcefully as she walked past her.
Catalina turned sideways in silence, her heart heavy.
Guessing what Lucian’s decision was, she could foresee that the home would soon be devoid of peace.
As Aubree ascended the steps, she continued to give Catalina a look of displeasure.
The day I become Mrs. Farwell, she’ll be the first person I fire! She has only been working here for two years, yet she thinks highly of herself!
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1086 Give You Time
Catalina didn’t close the door when she went down. Aubree saw Lucian standing in his study upon making her way up. “Lucian, I’m here.”
Aubree entered after knocking on the door. Inside the study, Lucian had already heard her footsteps, but he only turned around upon hearing her voice. By then, Aubree had already put on a gentle smile on her face.
Even though he had decided to accept her, Lucian still couldn’t help but feel that something wasn’t right every time he saw her. He remained silent for a long while.
Aubree didn’t dare enter the study on her own accord. All she could do was repeat herself, “Is there something you want to see me for?”
Jolted back to his senses, Lucian suppressed his inner thoughts as he replied in a deep voice, “Come in and have a seat.”
Pursing her lips into a smile, Aubree walked in and settled down on the couch in the center of the room.
Lucian sat down in an armchair with a conflicted look in his eyes. He could still feel the hesitance in his heart.
In that instant, silence descended upon the study.
The anticipation Aubree had before she came gradually turned into anxiety.
She clearly remembered Sonya telling her over the phone that Lucian was over Roxanne and had decided to continue with the engagement.
Yet now, he didn’t even look remotely like he had plans to get together with her.
Both of them were lost in their own thoughts when a knock on the door was suddenly heard.
It was Catalina who had brought some coffee. “Mr. Farwell, Ms. Pearson.”
Lucian nodded slightly to let her know she was dismissed once she was done.
“Thank you,” Aubree uttered politely, in contrast to her earlier viciousness.
Her thanks caused Catalina to freeze briefly before she quickly regained her composure. Once she put the coffee cups down, she turned around and headed out the door.
After taking a sip of coffee, Lucian began to speak. “I have let you down over the last six years.”
Aubree’s eyes lit up momentarily, but the fire in them was quickly suppressed. Feigning a wry smile, she replied, “It’s no big deal. I was willing to give you time.”
Lucian stared intently at her for a while before putting down his cup.
His tone was just as formal as before. “I would like to hear what you think about Essie.”
A hint of hatred flashed across Aubree’s eyes.
However, when she raised her gaze at Lucian, the resentment in them had been replaced by adoration and guilt.
“I watched her grow up, so naturally, I’m fond of her. Furthermore, her health hasn’t been good ever since she was young, and she was diagnosed with autism. Despite all the concern I feel for her, it’s a shame that I’m powerless to help…” While speaking, Aubree looked down in guilt. “If only I could get Essie to like me earlier, she might have chosen not to shut herself out from the world.”
Lucian scrutinized every single expression of hers while she was speaking.
However, when she finally finished, he didn’t detect a single ounce of insincerity from her.
Lucian’s brows wrinkled skeptically. He wasn’t going to easily trust the woman in front of him.
If she was really just acting, it would be considered a flawless performance.
“Ever since I hit Essie out of impulse, I went to see a psychologist to learn how to interact with autistic children.” Aubree snuck a glance at Lucian’s expression. “But her condition improved before I had the opportunity to use what I learned with her.”
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1087 Make It Up to Her
Lucian sized her up silently for a long while. Upon learning that she had sought a psychologist over the incident, Lucian looked a lot less hostile. His tone, too, softened when he said, “That’s very thoughtful of you.”
Detecting the change in his voice, Aubree felt her heart go wild in ecstasy. “It was my duty anyway. When I ended up hitting her, it was no surprise that she didn’t like me. This is all my fault, Lucian, and I’m willing to take responsibility.”
Unmoved by her words, Lucian continued to speak in an indifferent tone. “In that case, do you want to make it up to her?”
Aubree nodded without hesitation. “All this while, I have been wanting to apologize to her but didn’t get the opportunity to do so.”
“Then why don’t you spend some time together? Essie will be home over the next few days, while I’ll be busy with work. If you have the time, you’re welcome to come over and spend time with her.”
Lucian was implicitly placing Estella in her care.
At that moment, Aubree pinched her palm just to make sure that she wasn’t dreaming.
By asking me to come over and watch Essie while he’s at work, isn’t that the equivalent of granting me access to the manor whenever I please?
It was a dream come true for Aubree. One that she didn’t imagine could be achieved so easily.
“Essie’s mood has been volatile recently. Since you have learned from the psychologist how to interact with her, you probably know what must be done. Don’t repeat the same mistake. She can’t afford to suffer any more emotional shocks.”
Aubree nodded fervently as she listened.
It wasn’t until Lucian finished that Aubree gave him a look of surprise. “Lucian, do you mean… that you’ll continue with our engagement?”
After frowning in silence for a few seconds, Lucian nodded. “As long as Essie accepts you.”
“Then…” Aubree pretended to be unsettled. “What about Ms. Jarvis? She’s Essie’s birth mother. Do you really not want to reconcile with her?”
Lucian scowled, springing to his feet abruptly. “Don’t ever mention that woman in front of me! If you still wish to continue the engagement, then take good care of Essie. As for everything else, don’t stick your nose into them!”
He didn’t want to hear Roxanne’s name being mentioned by anyone.
Aubree was dumbfounded for a few seconds. “Okay, I won’t bring it up again.”
Lucian dismissed her with a wave without even sparing her a glance. “Essie is now in her room. You can drop by if you wish. If not, you should head on home.”
The moment he finished, he walked up to the full-length window, showing no intention of speaking to Aubree any further.
His response caused Aubree to freeze, for she wasn’t a fool.
It was obvious to her that Lucian agreeing to continue with the engagement wasn’t on the account of him having any feelings for her at all.
Instead, he returned to the meaningless engagement simply because he had given up on Roxanne.
Furthermore, it wasn’t a done deal yet, as she was still under probation.
Despite all of that, it was certainly better than him totally ignoring her.
Aubree recovered her composure, her eyes brimming with conviction.
No matter what, she would seize the opportunity to ensure her marriage to Lucian would come to pass.
Aubree broke into a smile as she gradually got up from the couch. “In that case, I won’t take up any more of your time. I’ll go and see Essie now.”
She turned around and left the moment she finished.
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1088 Consequences of Being Unappreciative
After coming out of the study, Aubree headed straight for Estella’s room while trying her best to school her expression.
Though she wished Estella could just disappear, she was currently under “evaluation.” She would only truly become Lucian’s woman after gaining the girl’s favor.
As long as she could succeed, she didn’t mind putting on an act longer.
She’s just a kid. I’m sure she’ll take the bait if I put my mind to it.
With that in mind, Aubree knocked on Estella’s door with a faint smile.
Estella thought that it was Lucian or Catalina, so she skipped over to open the door.
“It’s been a while, Essie.”
Aubree put on a smile, which she assumed was friendly enough, and bent down to greet Estella.
Upon seeing the woman, Estella was reminded of the things that had happened before.
She looked around and noticed there was no one else in the corridor.
Ms. Pearson used to bully me when no one was around.
Estella shrank backward and hid behind the door, only revealing a pair of wary eyes.
Aubree was well aware of the reason Estella was scared, so she was unbothered by the latter’s behavior. “Don’t be scared. I know that I’ve done wrong. Don’t worry, Essie. I promise to be nice to you from now on. I’ll treat you like my own daughter,” she said.
As if worried that Estella wouldn’t believe her, she grinned and added, “Your daddy already scolded me. I know you get scared easily, so I won’t scare you anymore.”
By saying that, Aubree was implying that she had gotten Lucian’s permission to come here and meet Estella.
When Estella heard what Aubree said, she remembered what Lucian had told her when he left the room.
Daddy said Ms. Pearson will be coming to spend time with me. So that was true? Based on what Ms. Pearson said, it was Daddy who asked her to come here.
As that realization dawned upon Estella, she forgot about her fear and started to fret.
Daddy used to keep me away from Ms. Pearson because I don’t like her. Even when we met, Daddy would stay by my side. But now, Daddy asked her to come to me on her own. Does this mean he’s really not planning to pursue Ms. Jarvis anymore?
Panic flashed across Estella’s eyes.
What should I do so Daddy can change his mind?
Seeing Estella standing rooted to her spot, Aubree thought that the girl was scared.
For some reason, she suddenly recalled an action Roxanne had done to Estella. She reached out to stroke Estella’s head in an attempt to imitate Roxanne.
Estella snapped back to her senses right away and dodged in terror.
Because of her previous experiences, she instinctively assumed that Aubree was going to hit her.
Aubree’s hand froze in the air.
Rage rushed through her when she thought of the huge difference in Estella’s attitude toward her and Roxanne.
If this were before, she would have made Estella learn the consequences of being unappreciative. It would be perfect timing to do so since no one was with them.
However, she had just talked with Lucian.
Aubree suppressed the burning anger in her and flashed a smile at Estella.
“Essie, I know I scared you before. Don’t worry. I won’t do anything to you again in the future.”
Right after Aubree said that, she vaguely heard a sound from the study door.
Knowing that Lucian had come out, she put on an even more earnest expression.
“If you still hate me for what I did, I’ll let you hit me back. How about that?”
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1089 Treat You Better
Estella shook her head repeatedly with a helpless expression. Just as she was at a loss about what to do, she heard Lucian’s firm footsteps approaching.
Immediately, her eyes lit up. She darted past Aubree and sought refuge in Lucian, wrapping her small arms around his thigh. Lucian looked down at the child clinging to him and thought of Aubree’s apologetic words earlier.
“It won’t take just one night for Essie to forgive you, so there’s no need for you to resort to such desperate measures,” he uttered while staring grimly at Aubree, who was still crouching on the floor.
In response, Aubree pretended to smile bitterly. She said in dejection, “I’m sorry. I was impatient again. I’m just—”
Before she could finish her words, Lucian cut her off, “It’s getting late. Come downstairs and have dinner with us.” Aubree paused and looked in Lucian’s direction in disbelief.
By then, he was already heading downstairs hand in hand with Estella. For a while, Aubree stared at their figures from the back dazedly.
If it weren’t for Estella’s existence, Aubree would have thought they had time-traveled back to six or seven years ago when Lucian still despised Roxanne and wanted to marry her.
However, no one came upstairs to get her even after a long time.
It was then that Aubree returned to her senses and accepted reality. She got to her feet and slowly descended the stairs.
In the dining room, Lucian and Estella were already seated by the table.
From the looks of it, Lucian wouldn’t have asked anyone to go and bring Aubree down if she hadn’t come down on her own.
Nevertheless, the extra set of cutleries on the table was enough to prove that Aubree was not hearing things earlier.
She clenched her fist and recomposed herself. With a smile, she sat down beside the father-daughter duo.
“What does Essie like to eat? I can learn to make them.”
Hearing Aubree’s voice, Estella moved closer to Lucian quietly.
A look of displeasure fleeted across Aubree’s eyes, but she quickly concealed it. “Essie, I’m really good at cooking. I’m sure you’ll love the food I make!”
Lucian frowned slightly. “Essie, Ms. Pearson is talking to you.”
Only then did Estella raise her head and glance at Aubree. “No.”
Her voice was so soft that Aubree did not hear her clearly. “What did you say, Essie?”
“I don’t want to eat your food!” Estella protested, resistance evident in her widened eyes. She turned around and grabbed the hem of Lucian’s shirt pitifully. “I want to eat the food made by Ms. Jarvis.”
The sudden mention of Roxanne caused the two adults’ expressions to change.
Aubree gritted her teeth secretly, coldness gleaming in her eyes. Then she glanced at Lucian cautiously.
She knew Lucian had always had a soft spot for Estella.
I waited so long until Lucian finally gave up on Roxanne. Yet now, this little brat is going to change his mind with just one statement!
Fortunately, Lucian remained indifferent. Even his voice was cold as he said, “Ms. Jarvis is not around anymore. From now on, Ms. Pearson will treat you better than Ms. Jarvis did.”
Aubree heaved a silent sigh of relief before chiming in, “Your daddy is right. Essie, if there’s anything you want, just tell me and I’ll get them for you. If you get sick, let me know as well, and I’ll take care of you. Let’s not think about Ms. Jarvis anymore, okay?”
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1090 Talk About the Engagement
“No!” Estella was livid to see her father going along with the mean lady. Furiously, she threw her fork away, jumped off her chair, and dashed up the stairs.
At the sight of the girl’s tantrum, Aubree was enraged, but she had to keep up with her act. “Essie!” she yelled, quickly putting down her fork and going to run after the girl.
Right as she stood up, Lucian stopped her. “Let her be.” Aubree pretended to look troubled. “But Essie, she—”
Lucian was unfazed. “It’s good for her to calm down by herself too. I spoiled her too much by letting her get anything she wanted in the past.”
On his journey back, Lucian had mulled over the matter of Estella destroying Jack’s tire.
Even though he could understand why she had done that, those were actions that he could not just let go of since she was already getting better with her condition.
It was time for him to correct the way she expressed herself.
Roxanne’s matter was an opportunity for him to do that.
Glee filled Aubree’s mind, but she put on a look of guilt on her face. “This is all because of me. I know Essie doesn’t like me, and I know I can’t rush her into liking me, but I still insisted on staying for the meal. It’s my fault Essie didn’t get to eat her food properly.”
Lucian lifted his head to glance at her. “This has nothing to do with you. She has to face this fact eventually.” With that, he nonchalantly returned to his meal. “Let’s continue eating.”
A trace of delight danced across Aubree’s eyes when she heard him say that, and she sat back down in her seat.
After dinner, Aubree suggested with faked concern that she wanted to check on Estella upstairs.
Unsurprisingly, Lucian rejected her suggestion and told her that Estella needed to calm down first.
Aubree did not insist after that. “I’ll go back first, then. Don’t worry and focus on your work. I’ll be visiting Essie as often as I can.”
Lucian nodded. “You know what kind of girl Essie is. If you want her to accept you, you’ll have to be patient.”
Aubree did not expect him to give her a tip.
“I will. Even if Essie keeps ignoring me, I’ll still take good care of her!”
Lucian said nothing else and told Catalina to send her off.
After exiting the Farwell residence, Aubree could no longer hide the joy on her face.
“Aubree, what took you so long?” was the question Gina asked her when she finally returned to the Pearson residence. “Dinner’s already cold. I’ll get someone to heat it up again. Wash up and come back downstairs for dinner.”
Aubree halted in her tracks and smiled. “I’ve already had dinner.”
Confused, Gina asked, “Where?”
The thought of how she had had dinner with Lucian earlier brought a satisfied smile to Aubree’s lips. “With Lucian.”
Gina sat upright instantly, and a nervous look appeared on her face. “What did Lucian say? Did he talk to you about the engagement again?”
Ever since Roxanne came back to the country, Lucian had never bothered to contact Aubree himself.
There were a few times when Aubree had gone to him, but he had just gone on and on about breaking off the engagement.
Gina assumed that was what Lucian had talked to Aubree about again.
However, the look on her daughter’s face made the flame of hope burn in her chest. “Or has he decided to keep the engagement as it is?”
Aubree nodded in affirmation before conveying to her mother what Lucian had said to her.
After listening to what had happened, Gina nodded fervently. “That’s unimportant. These are all not important as long as he cuts ties with Roxanne and keeps his engagement to you…”