Chapter 1118

Roxanne froze in shock. She knew how much Archie and Benny liked Lucian and that she hadn't seen Lucian since their falling out. Their stubbornness surprised her. For a moment, she even considered letting them go with Lucian. But she quickly dismissed the thought. She’d worked so hard for a comfortable life with Archie and Benny; losing them would negate everything.

After a moment's reflection, Roxanne patted Benny's head. "Don't say such things again," she said apologetically. "Mr. Farwell is Essie's father. And you two will have your own fathers someday."

Benny frowned, about to protest, but Roxanne continued, "I know you dislike Mr. Damaris. He and I are strictly business partners. I won't make you call him 'Daddy' or anything."

Before Benny could speak, Archie interjected, "Understood, Mommy. A classmate asked about Essie today. Benny's just worried about her. Give us some time, and we'll be fine." He gave Benny a warning glance, silencing him.

Roxanne's expression clouded at the mention of Estella. "Mr. Farwell will take good care of Essie. You don't need to worry."

Archie nodded. "I'll talk to him. You should go downstairs, Mommy. Mr. Damaris is waiting."

Archie's reminder jolted Roxanne. She'd forgotten Jack.

"All right. Stay here. We'll have dinner together after Mr. Damaris leaves." She patted their heads and hurried downstairs.

Jack was reading an ancient medicine book. He looked up at her footsteps. "How are the children?"

Roxanne felt nervous. "Nothing much. They had a little fight with some kids at kindergarten."

Jack nodded, feigning ignorance of their animosity toward him. "Kids do that sometimes. Be attentive to their feelings."

Roxanne forced a smile. "Thank you, Mr. Damaris. I'll keep that in mind."

She started to invite him to dinner, but the words caught in her throat, noticing the untouched dishes. Jack perceived the shift in her demeanor.

"It's late. My parents are visiting, so I need to have dinner with them. I can't keep you company this time," he said, his expression ambiguous.

Roxanne had only invited him out of politeness, but his words sounded like she’d desired his company. Distraught, she didn't notice the intimacy. In fact, she felt relieved. "Oh, that's alright! Family is most important. You should go, Mr. Damaris. Don't keep your parents waiting."