Chapter 1296

Not long after, the car stopped before a beach. Roxanne's heart relaxed at the sight of the vast ocean. It had been a while since her last visit. Six years ago, before their separation, she would come alone for solace whenever Lucian hurt her. After Archie and Benny were born, she found rejuvenation playing with them on the beach. To her surprise, she felt the same peace today, gazing at the endless sea.

"I recall you used to come here frequently," Lucian's voice, a reminiscence of old times, echoed. "After you left, I did too, whenever I felt tired. It felt… good." He took her hand and led her onto the beach. It was a weekday; they were alone. Roxanne hesitated briefly before allowing him to lead her.

They strolled along the shore, chatting about the past six years. Roxanne shared her life, omitting details about Archie and Benny. It was the first time she’d spoken of it so calmly. Lucian listened, guilt and anguish flitting across his face. The more she talked, the more relaxed she became. Eventually, she removed her shoes and walked along the shoreline.

Seeing this, Lucian was reminded of her previous injury. "It was dark that night. I didn't see clearly and got hurt. This time, I'll be careful," Roxanne said cheerfully. She spotted a sharp-edged blue shell peeking from the sand. Her face lit up. "Oh, how wonderful! The ocean never ceases to amaze me!" She dug it out and showed it to Lucian.

Lucian stared at her smile. "It's gorgeous." Roxanne, engrossed in admiring the shell, didn't notice his thoughtful expression. She felt a surge of pride at his agreement.

Something occurred to Lucian; he lowered his head and began searching the beach. Roxanne looked up, noticing his furrowed brow, his search seeming like a battle. Curiosity surged. "What are you looking for?"

Lucian replied honestly, "Shells. You seem to adore them, so I was thinking of collecting some to make you a bracelet."

Surprise flashed across Roxanne's eyes. They'd known each other for a long time, yet this was the first time he'd offered to make something for her. A respected CEO, he was acting like a schoolboy. Roxanne wouldn't lie; she was shocked.

"Since you didn't appreciate the flowers I gave you before, I wonder if my handmade bracelet will be more to your liking," he quipped.

Roxanne was touched, but simply smiled and said, "How childish of you."

Lucian didn't seem to mind. He accepted her "compliment" and continued his search. Roxanne hesitated before joining him. As they combed the beach, they playfully joked, like schoolchildren. Spotting a lovely shell, Roxanne rushed towards it. As she crouched to pick it up, the waves suddenly surged towards her.