Chapter 1348

Lucian watched her gaze silently at the sea. Guilt darkened his eyes. She must have stood here alone six years ago. What was she thinking? Was she blaming him?

He approached slowly, his eyes revealing the guilt and affection that had built within him for six years.

Roxanne turned, surprised to find him beside her. She was instantly transported back in time, his presence filling a life-long void.

"A penny for your thoughts?" Lucian asked, noticing the shift in her expression.

Roxanne emerged from her reverie, offering a nonchalant smile. "Nothing. The ocean just looks different today, that's all."

That explained her altered feelings from her previous visit.

Lucian looked at her silently before pulling her into his arms. The children behind them recoiled, remembering their previous interruption. They quickly covered their eyes, though smiles played on their lips. Benny peeked through his fingers, watching Roxanne regain her composure. She gently pushed Lucian away. "The kids are here. Stop it."

Lucian buried his face in her hair, murmuring, "They won't peek."

Roxanne frowned. Before she could protest, the children's adorable voices rang out, "Mommy, we didn't see anything!"

She scanned their faces; all had their hands over their eyes, smiling broadly. They hadn't seen anything—now—but they had seen everything a moment ago.

"They didn't see a thing," Lucian assured her, feigning nonchalance while tightening his embrace.

Roxanne relaxed, allowing the hug. "What is it? Hurry, the children are waiting."

Lucian was overwhelmed. He didn't know why he'd hugged her. Guilt? Impulsiveness?

After a long silence, he said hoarsely, "Can you promise me you'll only wear this kind of dress for me?" He was captivated by her in the ocean-blue gown, consumed by guilt over the past six years, and desperate to make amends.

Roxanne understood his unspoken plea, though she could hardly believe her ears.

"I'll keep you company when you come to the beach. You won't be alone anymore," she replied.

His hand brushed her waist, a tingling sensation jolting her back to reality. Finally, she allowed herself to believe. Her hands clenched into fists as she gave a conflicted nod.

Lucian loosened his grip, but instead of releasing her, he leaned down to kiss her. Roxanne quickly glanced at the children, avoiding his kiss.

Lucian seemed disappointed.

Roxanne cleared her throat. "All right, since you're here, let's have fun with the kids at the beach."