Chapter 1250

The child's innocent question only deepened Lucian's self-reproach. The word "homewrecker" was cruel, yet Lucian understood Aubree's outburst stemmed from him. This realization brought a suffocating pain and overwhelming guilt.

When Lucian remained silent, Benny panicked. "Mommy's not a homewrecker!"

Lucian, jolted back to reality, patted Benny's head. "How could your mommy be a homewrecker? She's—" He stopped, unable to articulate a defense.

Surprisingly, the children didn't press further. The assurance that Roxanne wasn't a homewrecker seemed enough. Lucian rose, announcing, "I'm going upstairs. Stay here and wait for me."

The children nodded eagerly, watching him go. He reached Roxanne's door and knocked, receiving no answer. "Roxanne, it's me. Open up. I want to talk to you." It was the first time he'd spoken to her so gently while she was conscious.

Hearing his tone, Roxanne felt her heart crumble. "I'm sorry," she called out. "I heard about what happened from the children. Aubree and Frieda caused you a lot of trouble. It's my fault for not protecting you and the children."

His voice was filled with remorse. Clenching her fists, Roxanne fought back tears. "Go home," she replied, her voice strained. "I'm tired. I need to rest."

He pleaded, "Open the door, please. I just want to talk. Once I'm done, I'll leave. I promise I won't disturb you."

Roxanne wiped her tears, unsure how to face him. "Just say it," she whispered. "I'm listening."

Silence fell. They remained frozen by the door. After a while, Lucian spoke again.

"I know you blame me. Six years ago, and now, I was the root of our problems."

Roxanne's eyelashes fluttered as she stared at the door, imagining him standing there. She sensed his next words would be unimaginable.

"Six years ago, I didn't realize my feelings in time," Lucian's voice was grim yet resolute. "Now that you're back, I won't let you leave. I won't spare anyone who hurt you. I'll give you an answer about Aubree."

Recalling his recent actions, Roxanne's heart wavered. A voice urged her to trust him, to give him another chance. If it failed, she could leave again, as she had six years ago. She had survived death; a little pain was insignificant.

Mindlessly, she opened the door. Lucian, still apologizing, fell silent, his gaze intense.