After Sonva spoke with Lucian, she returned home and immediately called the Pearson residence.

Following the release of the news, Aubree refused to go to the office, wanting to avoid the employees' gossip about Lucian and Roxanne's photos. She stayed home for two days.

When Sonya called, Aubree was with Gina.

"I've already spoken to Lucian," Sonya said. "Tell Aubree not to worry. This won't happen again. Just rest easy and wait for the engagement!"

Gina gestured for Aubree to answer.

Aubree composed herself. "Thank you, Mrs. Farwell," she said politely.

Sonya was stunned by Aubree's voice. Guilt overwhelmed her when she remembered Lucian's statement about having no intention of fulfilling the marriage contract. "Aubree, I'm so sorry you have to go through this."

Aubree's expression hardened, but her tone remained polite. "I'm fine, Mrs. Farwell. As long as I can be with Lucian, I'm willing to endure this."

Sonya felt terrible. "Don't worry. No matter what, I'll only acknowledge you as my daughter-in-law. Forget yesterday's news. Everyone thinks the woman in the photo is you anyway, so no one will say anything."

Aubree thanked her again.

After a brief conversation, they hung up.

Aubree felt relieved, but recalling the intimate photos of Lucian and Roxanne, her anger flared. Roxanne had humiliated her at Alfred's birthday party, and now she'd nearly ruined Aubree's engagement.

"I have to teach that woman a lesson," Aubree thought. "She needs to be put in her place!"

The next day, Aubree waited at the kindergarten entrance. She watched Roxanne drop off Archie and Benny. As Roxanne returned to her car, Aubree followed, opening the passenger-side door.

Roxanne, assuming it was Lucian, looked up, her expression turning serious when she saw Aubree. "What do you think you're doing, Ms. Pearson?"

Aubree smirked. "Nothing. I just wanted to chat. Are you free, Ms. Jarvis?"

Roxanne, guessing the subject, frowned. "Sorry, I'm busy. I don't have time."

"You're rejecting me without knowing what I want to say. Are you feeling guilty, Ms. Jarvis?" Aubree taunted.

Roxanne's face tightened. "I have work this morning, but I'll be free at noon. Since you suggested this, choose a place. I'll be there."

Roxanne had rejected Aubree because she believed she'd drawn a line with Lucian and didn't want to be involved in their drama again. However, fearing Aubree's escalating actions, she decided to confront the issue directly.

Seeing Roxanne agree, Aubree left. Roxanne, suppressing her confusion, drove to the research institute. She was extremely busy with a critical project all morning.

Checking her phone, she realized it was almost time to meet Aubree. Without delay, she drove to their meeting place.

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