Chapter 132: Let Us Take Care of You
Warmth seeped into Roxanne's heart at the girl's reply. Her eyes were red-rimmed, but a smile played on her lips.
At the sight of them, even Lucian's heart softened. He took a deep breath before saying, "Let's eat first."
Roxanne released the girl and blinked away her tears. Smiling, she said, "Yes, let's eat first."
Then, remembering the mess in the kitchen, she stood to clean up.
Lucian said, "I've asked Catalina to come. She'll be taking care of you all for the next two days, so please sit down and eat."
Roxanne paused, then turned to thank him. "Thank you."
She refused to treat Lucian like a stranger because of Estella and wouldn't refuse his offer.
Lucian nodded.
Roxanne turned to the boys. "Come on. You must be hungry too. Eat while the food is hot."
The boys were starving. At her words, they jumped from the couch and lined up at the dining table.
Roxanne sat between them. Habitually, she reached for food for them, but remembered her injury. She had to use her left hand, making her movements clumsy.
Seeing their mother's slowness, Archie and Benny said, "Mommy, you don't need to take care of us. Let us take care of you!"
They stood and served Roxanne her favorite foods.
Roxanne watched her thoughtful sons with tender eyes. Touched, she said, "Thank you, my darlings."
Seeing this, Estella imitated them, bringing Roxanne a small portion of her favorite food. She stared at Roxanne with bright eyes, eagerly awaiting her reaction.
Roxanne ate the food, smiling and patting Estella's head. "Thank you, Essie. It's delicious!"
Estella beamed and continued to serve Roxanne.
For a moment, the three children competed to fill Roxanne's plate.
Roxanne was full, but knowing it was a kind gesture, she slowly finished her plate.
Lucian intervened, unsure whether to laugh or sigh. "That's enough. Kids, focus on your own food."
He wasn't sure whether to praise their thoughtfulness or chide Roxanne's soft heart.
Roxanne could barely straighten up from overeating. Gratefully, she looked at Lucian when he spoke.
Fortunately, the children obeyed Lucian, and the food onslaught ceased.
After dinner, Catalina arrived.
Roxanne began tidying the table, but Catalina stopped her. "Ms. Jarvis, you're still injured. Please rest and keep the children company."
Roxanne agreed and went to the living room to find the children.
There, she saw Estella and Lucian by the door. He was already in his jacket, ready to leave.
Roxanne approached, puzzled.
Lucian said gently to Estella, "Daddy's leaving. Stay with Ms. Jarvis and the boys. Be good, and don't trouble Ms. Jarvis. Catalina will be taking care of you for the next few days."
Estella nodded obediently. Though reluctant to see her father go, she enjoyed staying with Roxanne.
Lucian straightened as Roxanne approached. "Something came up at work, so I have to leave. Estella's still recovering; her condition is unstable. I thought she could stay with you for two more days. Catalina will be here. If this troubles you, ask Catalina to bring her back after she's finished cleaning."
Roxanne paused, then patted Estella's head. "It's alright. Let her stay."
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