Chapter 1284

Lucian returned from buying water to find the children laughing and surrounding a smiling Roxanne. His expression softened at the scene. Seeing him, the children happily waved, beckoning him closer. Lucian hurried over, distributing the drinks he'd purchased as he listened to Roxanne and the children's conversation.

"Were you scared just now?" Roxanne suddenly asked, turning to him. The children's gazes followed hers.

Lucian shrugged, raising his eyebrows. "I've been parachuting. That was scarier than the roller coaster."

Surprise flickered across Roxanne's eyes. She hadn't expected such a thrill-seeking side to Lucian's personality. Archie and Benny's eyes lit up with excitement. They enthusiastically grabbed the hem of Lucian's shirt. "Mr. Farwell, take us next time!"

Lucian smiled down at them. "All right," he agreed readily. "When you're old enough."

The boys cheered. Roxanne watched their interaction with Lucian, feeling a pang of emotion. They needed their father. She knew Archie and Benny were adventurous, but they'd always considered her feelings, fearing she might be worried. With Lucian, however, they felt free to be themselves. Perhaps, she thought, they would grow up happier with him in their lives.

Just then, a small hand tugged at her blouse. Roxanne looked down to see Estella gazing up at her with wide, unwavering eyes.

"Essie, what is it?" Roxanne asked, bending down.

Estella wrapped her arms around Roxanne's neck and whispered softly, "Ms. Jarvis, can I call you Mommy?" Her voice was soft and hesitant, betraying past rejections.

Roxanne instinctively glanced at Lucian, who was engrossed in conversation with Archie and Benny. They hadn't noticed. Estella, sensing Roxanne's silence, hurried to explain. "We look like a family! Besides, Ms. Jarvis, didn't you agree to let Daddy court you? We'll be a family soon!" Hope shone on her face.

Roxanne was touched. She had accepted Lucian's attentions, but the future felt uncertain. Agreeing to Estella's request felt risky; she didn't want to disappoint the child. Hesitation clouded her thoughts.

"Ms. Jarvis..." Estella's eyes welled up, fear of rejection evident. Roxanne couldn't bear to refuse her. "Your daddy and I..." she began, intending to clarify their unmarried status, but decided against it to avoid confusion. "If you really want a different name, how about Aunt Roxanne?"

Estella pouted, clearly less than thrilled, but accepting Roxanne's compromise, she nodded. "Okay."