Chapter 1251

“Roxanne.” Lucian felt happier than he ever had seeing her emerge. Roxanne should understand the implications of opening the door after his words.

A myriad of emotions plagued Roxanne. She raised her eyes, glancing faintly at him. Her voice held a hint of exhaustion. “Didn’t you say you wanted to talk? You can start now.” Lucian remained silent.

He stared morosely at her. After a long moment, he reached out, touching her eyes.

Roxanne instinctively closed her eyes, feeling Lucian’s calloused fingers brush against them. “Did you cry?” His joy instantly morphed into remorse and pity. His voice, unlike usual, lacked its calm composure.

Roxanne’s eyelids trembled. Slowly opening her eyes, she avoided his gaze. “I’m just too tired. I thought about the past and I couldn’t help…” She was pulled into a warm embrace before she could finish.

Roxanne froze, then instinctively struggled. “What are you doing? Let go of me!” Lucian’s grip tightened, as if to envelop her completely.

His embrace made it difficult for Roxanne to breathe. She continued pushing him away. “Don’t be like this. The children are downstairs.” His warm breath brushed her ear. “I’m sorry,” he murmured. “I’m sorry for everything you’ve been through. I can’t make up for it, no matter what I do.” His words stunned her into silence.

Lucian finally loosened his grip, sensing her discomfort. He continued, “Please give me a chance to redeem myself. Let me protect you. I won’t let you shed another tear. I’ll treat Archie and Benny as my own. I won’t let them go, even if their biological father appears!” His words felt like a sledgehammer to her heart, making it hard to breathe.

She hadn’t realized how long she’d waited to hear these words. For years, Roxanne had raised Archie and Benny alone, fearing Lucian would discover their identity—primarily fearing he would take them from her. But now, he assured her of a peaceful future, promising to protect them all. She had longed for a shoulder to cry on, having held strong for so long. She raised her hand, wanting to hug him back.

But as she did, she caught sight of the stairs. Three small heads retreated into the corner.

Roxanne froze, then quickly regained her composure, pushing Lucian away. “Let go! The children are watching!” Lucian’s brow furrowed. He turned to look, Roxanne still in his arms.

Estella, Benny, and Archie stood huddled at the stairwell’s corner. They shyly stuck out their tongues when Lucian’s gaze met theirs.

“Essie, it’s all your fault! Mommy’s looking. Why aren’t you hiding?” Benny complained, lowering his head. Estella blinked twice, looking utterly innocent.