Chapter 1194

Archie and Benny quickly spoke up for Lucian. “Mommy, Mr. Farwell was worried about you, and he took good care of us,” they said.

Roxanne felt a wave of helplessness wash over her as she realized the children were siding with him. She noticed Lucian's weary appearance; it was clear he'd been worried. However, this didn't mean she could readily accept him.

As Roxanne searched for a response, Lucian interjected, “This is a matter for adults. Your mommy has just woken up. You should talk to her.”

Roxanne felt a surge of relief, grateful for his intervention. Still, she couldn't meet his gaze, offering the children only a shaky smile.

The children ceased their questioning, gathering around Roxanne to recount amusing kindergarten events. After some time, Archie and Benny noticed Estella's silence. Curious, they asked, “Essie, are you happy at your new kindergarten?” They'd always wondered, but hadn't had the chance to ask until now.

Roxanne's heart sank. Her last visit revealed Estella had been bullied. She worried about her well-being. Lucian had addressed the parents' behavior, but Roxanne feared the children might harbor resentment. She anxiously watched Estella.

Estella blinked twice before turning to Lucian. "I still want to go back to the old kindergarten to be with Archie and Benny," she said.

Lucian, however, looked directly at Roxanne. "Essie is doing well in her kindergarten," he explained.

Roxanne was surprised. A moment of silence followed before she nodded, her emotions a mixture of relief and uncertainty. "I'm glad to hear that. I was concerned—"

Before she could finish, Lucian interrupted, "If you're concerned, why didn't you visit her for so long?"

Roxanne froze. Lucian should know why; he'd witnessed her argument with Aubree. Yet, she couldn't bring herself to explain. Lucian stared at her intently, awaiting an answer.

Finally, Roxanne hung her head. "I apologize for my reservations," she murmured, the recipient of her apology unclear.

Archie and Benny exchanged a glance, remembering Aubree's visit. Seeing Roxanne's remorse, they tried to explain. "Mommy didn't do that on purpose. That evil woman—"

"Benny!" Roxanne scolded, silencing him.

Benny fell silent, looking hurt. He wanted to defend Roxanne to Lucian, but respected her wishes. Mommy's sick, so I can't make her angry. I should listen to her and be a good boy.

Roxanne managed to stop Benny, but Lucian sensed something was amiss. "What happened?" he asked, his brow furrowed.

Benny looked down, awkwardly placing his hands behind his back and shaking his head vigorously.