Chapter 1422

Lucian had mentioned visiting Roxanne in the past few days, but she'd rejected him, citing work. Hearing Estella mention Roxanne's infrequent homecomings, he realized how hard she'd been working.

"Are you free tomorrow at noon? Let's have lunch," Lucian suggested, determined to ensure Roxanne rested.

Roxanne fell silent for a moment before replying apologetically, "Sorry, I'm not free."

Lucian frowned. "Why? Is there work you must complete?"

Roxanne scratched her nose sheepishly. "I've promised to have lunch with Mr. Damaris tomorrow to discuss a project."

Jack Damaris? Lucian's expression darkened. He and Roxanne hadn't been in contact much lately, yet she was meeting Damaris? The nursing home residents' words echoed in his mind. After all, they didn't work in the same field, and her workaholism minimized their time together. He felt threatened.

Noticing his silence, Roxanne softened her tone. "I want to stay in Chanaea and be with Essie, so I'm considering expanding the research institute. A collaboration with the Damaris family would greatly benefit its development."

Lucian, while unhappy, wouldn't stop her career advancement. He relented. "All right. I'll invite you another day. I hope you won't keep rejecting me."

Roxanne, surprised by his easy acceptance, agreed with a smile.

After ending the call, Lucian contacted his children, asking for a favor—a favor they readily agreed to.

The next morning, Roxanne found her three children on the couch downstairs. Surprised, she asked, "What's wrong?" She'd been leaving for work earlier than usual, and they typically only woke to say goodbye as she left.

The children smiled adorably. "Mommy, will you be busy today, too?"

Roxanne patted their heads. "Sorry for not spending enough time with you. Let's go out and have fun after work."

The children nodded, but Estella stared at Roxanne's neck. Roxanne touched her neck, confused. "Essie, is something on my neck?"

Pouting, Estella said, "Mommy, why aren't you wearing the necklace?"

Roxanne realized Estella meant Lucian's gift. "It's not convenient to wear jewelry at work," she explained patiently.

But the girl persisted. "Mommy, is it because you don't like the necklace?"

Roxanne subconsciously shook her head.

"Then it's because you don't like Daddy!" Estella pouted, her head downcast. "Mommy, please don't hate Daddy..."

Roxanne was utterly confused. She'd explained everything, but Estella didn't seem to understand. Pressed for time, Roxanne went upstairs to put on the necklace.

A smile spread across Estella's face as she saw the necklace.