Chapter 1219

Roxanne patted Archie's and Benny's heads soothingly. "Mommy's feeling much better now. Are you two worried?"

Archie and Benny stared at her with concern. Roxanne saw her pale reflection in their eyes, understanding their worry.

She said apologetically, "I'm alright now. I must have scared you yesterday. I'm so sorry."

Benny, in his childish voice, reminded her, "You already apologized yesterday! We just want you healthy and well!"

Roxanne's heart warmed, and a smile spread across her face. "Essie's worried too. She was so scared she cried when she dreamt I fell unconscious."

Benny noticed Estella hiding behind the others and moved so Roxanne could see her. Estella peeked at Roxanne, her head lowered. She remembered Roxanne's refusal to let her call her "Mommy" before, and feared Roxanne's reaction to having called her that during her unconsciousness.

Roxanne saw Estella's discomfort and, her heart aching, pulled her into a hug. Estella started to say "Mom—" then, remembering, quickly corrected herself, "Ms. Jarvis."

Roxanne felt a surge of nervousness at Estella's initial word, relieved by the correction. Smiling, she stroked Estella's hair. "I'm sorry. I promised to visit your kindergarten, but haven't yet. Did you wait long?"

Estella pursed her lips, about to nod, then seeing Roxanne's pallor, shook her head. "It's the same if I came to see you!" she said sadly, her gaze downcast. "It would be better if you weren't sick."

Roxanne's heart melted. "It's my fault. I was careless and worried you all." Estella shook her head again.

After a while, Archie approached Lucian, his action drawing Benny and Estella's attention and confusing Roxanne.

Archie thanked Lucian sincerely, "Thank you, Mr. Farwell. You took care of Mommy yesterday, and she recovered so quickly." Benny echoed his thanks, both boys bowing politely.

Lucian looked at the children, then at Roxanne. "Don't mention it," he said meaningfully. "I promise I'll take good care of your mother."

Roxanne instinctively looked at him. His tone sounded like a promise between lovers, though he only cared for her while she was ill. Why the ambiguity?

She felt nervous and emotional. When had Lucian told the children this? What else had they discussed while she was unconscious?