Chapter 1253

Estella, Benny, and Archie rejoiced silently after hearing Roxanne's news. They then turned to Lucian.

Lucian smiled. “What a shame. I’ll take you all out to eat next time.”

The children jumped for joy.

Roxanne watched the scene with warmth, saying nothing as she went downstairs to prepare dinner. Lucian and the three children followed closely behind.

In the living room, Estella, Archie, and Benny surrounded Lucian, their faces full of anticipation.

“Mr. Farwell, when will you become our daddy?” Benny asked, staring intently at Lucian.

Lucian gently caressed his head. “Soon. Don’t worry. I won’t let anyone else have that chance.”

Benny cheered.

Estella immediately added, “Daddy, you must keep your promise this time!” She recalled Lucian's previous broken promise to make Roxanne her mother, a promise broken by his falling out with Roxanne, leaving Aubree to care for her. The incident left a lingering fear in her heart.

Lucian turned apologetically to Estella. “I will. It was all my fault last time. But I’ve thought things through, so it won’t happen again.”

Estella puffed her cheeks, a hint of resentment in her eyes. “Mr. Farwell.”

From a corner, Archie spoke seriously. “Ms. Pearson and Ms. Queen will apologize to Mommy, right? Will they bother Mommy again?” He'd wanted to ask when Lucian would end his engagement with Aubree, but chose to hint at it instead. As father and son, Lucian understood immediately. He replied grimly, “I won’t let them off the hook this time. Don’t worry, I’ll handle it.”

Archie nodded and looked toward the kitchen. Lucian followed his gaze to Roxanne, his expression softening.

“Go play for a bit. I’ll help your Mommy with dinner.” He paused, about to go to the kitchen. “You can stay here. It’s rather smoky.”

The children nodded knowingly, giving Lucian and Roxanne some alone time. Lucian then went into the kitchen.

Roxanne, preoccupied with recent events as she cooked, was caught off guard by Lucian's words. Regret welled up. How can I forgive him so easily? She angrily and forcefully chopped vegetables.

Lost in thought, she was startled by Lucian's voice.

“What are you thinking about?” He stared, baffled. She didn’t even notice I was here. I wonder what’s on her mind.

Roxanne’s hands slipped, jolting her back to reality.

“Careful!” Lucian quickly grabbed her hand, preventing her from injuring herself, and guided her to put down the knife.

They stood in shocked silence.