Chapter 1209

“Roxanne?” Lucian’s heart ached as he approached the hospital bed, calling her name softly. Roxanne’s eyelids felt heavy. She wanted to respond, but lacked the strength. Sleep was all she craved.

Lucian’s gloom deepened as her drowsiness intensified. After a protracted wait, he angrily flung open the ward door, his gaze fixing on the specialist waiting outside.

“M-Mr. Farwell…” the specialist stammered. He had remained, awaiting any developments following Roxanne’s earlier headache. He hadn't anticipated facing Lucian's fury alone, and a tremor ran through him.

Lucian’s face was grim. “What injection did you give her? Why is she so sleepy?” he demanded.

The specialist breathed a sigh of relief. “Ms. Jarvis endured significant pain all day and experienced considerable emotional distress earlier. We added sedatives to the painkiller to ensure she could rest properly.” The mood swings would cease once she slept; it was the most effective solution.

Lucian’s expression softened. “We acted without informing you. I apologize for your worry,” the specialist said sheepishly.

A weight lifted from Lucian’s chest. The day's exhaustion washed over him. “It’s fine. Your solution is excellent,” he said, waving a dismissive hand. He turned and re-entered the ward.

Roxanne’s consciousness drifted. Fear of succumbing to deeper unconsciousness from the poisoning symptoms kept her from fully drifting off. She vaguely heard approaching footsteps, her tension growing.

Lucian stood beside the bed, his eyes mirroring his pain as he observed her anguish. Roxanne sensed his presence, immobile and silent. Unease grew; she wondered if it was Lucian.

Just as panic set in, a large hand touched her cheek. Her heart leaped; she instinctively tried to push it away, but lacked the strength.

Lucian’s voice, low and soothing, reached her ear. “Go ahead and sleep. The doctor added sedatives, so don't worry about sleeping for a long time. Jonathan’s taken the children out for a meal; they’ll be back soon.”

Roxanne relaxed, finally yielding to the sedatives and falling into a deep sleep. Her eyes closed, her consciousness hazy, she didn't notice the closeness of his voice.

Lucian leaned over, his hand on her cheek, his lips near her ear to ensure she heard him. The dim ward lighting cast them in an intimate tableau.

After confirming she was asleep, Lucian straightened, but his hand lingered on her cheek, caressing it gently. Even asleep, her peaceful slumber filled him with a quiet satisfaction.