Chapter 1255

“Trust me,” Lucian murmured gently, pressing a soft kiss to Roxanne’s lips.

Roxanne instinctively held her breath, gazing at him dazedly. His earlier words flickered in her mind, finally easing her guard. Though Lucian longed to deepen the kiss, he proceeded cautiously, unsure of her feelings. Sensing his hesitation, Roxanne slowly closed her eyes. The next moment, he pulled her into his arms, their kiss becoming heated and intense.

After a long, breathless moment, Roxanne gently pushed against his chest. Reluctantly, he released her. Lucian panted heavily, his brows furrowed, his gaze intense and deep. It felt as if he would devour her. Roxanne’s heart skipped a beat; panic rising, she averted her gaze, forcing herself to compose herself.

“Let’s eat. The kids must be starving,” she said, nonchalantly dishing up food and carrying it to the dining table, a subtle escape from Lucian’s passionate gaze, which somehow frightened her.

As Roxanne passed him, his low, hoarse voice brushed her ear. “This time, don’t pretend nothing happened. Essie’s wanted you to be her mommy for so long. Don’t run away.”

Roxanne paused momentarily, then quickened her pace, leaving the kitchen. The living room was empty; Archie, Benny, and Estella had wisely retreated to the courtyard to avoid disturbing their parents.

After setting the dishes on the table, Roxanne paused to compose herself before calling the children.

“Mommy, where’s Mr. Farwell?” The trio, seated at the table, looked around curiously. Lucian’s place setting was complete, but he was absent.

Roxanne glanced at the kitchen, flashing them a sheepish smile. “He’s still in the kitchen. He’ll be here soon.”

As if summoned by their words, Lucian emerged from the kitchen. Roxanne turned at the sound of footsteps. The sight of his slightly disheveled shirt reignited the emotions she had barely suppressed, causing her face to flush uncontrollably. Lucian, however, strolled over with an unperturbed expression, seemingly unfazed by their stares.

“Sorry to keep you waiting,” he said, sitting across from Roxanne and offering an apologetic smile to the children. They exchanged glances before assuring him it was alright.

Except for Roxanne, everyone’s mood was buoyant. They exchanged food throughout the meal. Roxanne habitually served the children, only to discover her own plate laden with her favorite dishes. Across the table, Lucian withdrew his hand, clearly intending to serve her more.

Roxanne’s heart fluttered, but she stopped him. “That’s enough. I can’t eat so much.”

Lucian complied, halting his actions. Meanwhile, Archie, Benny, and Estella watched the adults intently. Roxanne, still unaccustomed to this atmosphere, felt slightly helpless.

“How is your mommy’s cooking? Is it good?” Lucian’s cheerful voice eased the awkwardness. The children instantly understood, averting their gaze from Roxanne to answer sweetly, “Yes!”

Seizing the opportunity, Lucian engaged them in conversation. Roxanne breathed a silent sigh of relief. Looking at the abundance of food on her plate, she felt a bittersweet pang.