Chapter 1291

Roxanne noticed the shift in Lucian's demeanor and understood its cause. "I'm glad to hear that," she replied coldly.

Jeffrey's eyelids flickered at her cold response, but he maintained a smile. Pippa intervened, diffusing the tension. "The kids miss Essie, so no one will bully her."

Roxanne offered a polite smile. "I'll be entrusting Essie to your care, Ms. Ward."

As class began, Pippa prepared to take the children inside. Lucian then called out, "By the way, don't let Aubree pick Essie up from school. If I can't, Ms. Jarvis will." He gave Roxanne a meaningful look.

Pippa, understanding the implication, glanced at Roxanne in surprise. She'd sensed a complication in their relationship, but hadn't anticipated Roxanne replacing Sonya in Lucian's affections. This new realization altered her perception of Roxanne.

Roxanne, unprepared for Lucian's announcement, was speechless. Estella tugged at her shirt, asking excitedly, "Is that true, Aunt Roxanne? Will you pick me up now?"

All eyes turned to Roxanne. Seeing Estella's hopeful expression, she couldn't refuse. "Yes, that's right. If your daddy can't pick you up, you can play with Archie and Benny!"

The children cheered. Lucian added, "Similarly, if Ms. Jarvis can't make it, I will." Their cheers intensified.

Roxanne could only nod silently. Pippa, acknowledging the arrangement, said, "Understood. I'll keep that in mind."

Jeffrey cautiously asked, "What if someone from your family comes—Mrs. Farwell or Mr. Elias, for example?"

Roxanne recalled their recent argument and its lingering effect, despite her firm stance. Curious about Lucian's response regarding Sonya, she listened intently.

Lucian frowned. "Call me if they arrive. Don't let Essie go with them without my permission."

Jeffrey nodded profusely. "Understood, Mr. Farwell!"

Roxanne felt inexplicable relief. While pleased Lucian opposed his mother's disapproval, she also felt a pang of self-consciousness.

Pippa announced, "Class is starting. I'll take the children in now." She departed with the children, followed by Jeffrey.

When Roxanne recovered, only Lucian remained. "Why did you tell Ms. Ward and Mr. Bauer that?" she asked anxiously, striving to remain calm. The revelation risked exposing their relationship prematurely.