Chapter 1448

Roxanne considered her best friend's words, finding them sensible. She fell silent.

Meanwhile, Madilyn, having registered Roxanne's point, believed Lucian hadn't adequately compensated for the fright her friend and the children had endured. With concern, she advised, "While public attention has shifted, it's best if you all remain out of the media's eye for now."

Roxanne nodded. "I don't think that will be a problem. I'll be home or at the research institute; unless reporters specifically seek me out—"

"That's what I'm worried about!" Madilyn interrupted. "I'm concerned some reporters won't give up!"

Roxanne, who had more to say, was stunned by the outburst. Lucian's expression darkened slightly as he gripped Roxanne's hand, as if oblivious to their surroundings. "For now, you shouldn't go to the research institute. Just in case."

His touch made her heart clench. Glancing at Madilyn, she tried to pull away, but he was stronger. Reluctantly, she allowed him to hold her hand.

Madilyn addressed Lucian assertively. "Don't you think you should compensate Roxanne for the trouble you caused, Mr. Farwell?"

Lucian frowned, considering her statement.

Roxanne said resignedly, "It's nothing serious. I can do overtime later to make up for missed work—"

Madilyn silenced her with a glance, then turned to Lucian. "You have a private plane, Mr. Farwell? Why not take her to Miralaea for a trip? You can hide from reporters and relax."

Lucian was touched by the suggestion. He recalled promising to take the children on a trip after their Jadeborough visit, a promise he hadn't fulfilled due to Roxanne's workload. This seemed an ideal opportunity.

Turning to Roxanne, he asked, "How about Miralaea? We did talk about a family trip."

Roxanne hesitated; her collaboration with the Damaris family on a new medicine had been expedited.

Benny tugged at her shirt, asking excitedly, "Are we really going to Miralaea, Mommy?"

Estella's anticipatory gaze mirrored her brother's. Their pleading eyes swayed Roxanne.

She wondered, "What about school?"

Madilyn shrugged. "Just get them excused." Turning to the children, she asked, "Miralaea or school?"

Without hesitation, they chorused, "Miralaea!"

"That's more like it," Madilyn said, satisfied. "I've been busy as well, and need a break—" She abruptly stopped, realizing something.

Roxanne narrowed her eyes. "You just want a free trip to Miralaea."

Madilyn, her intentions revealed, argued, "Since you need to avoid reporters, another country is better than hiding at home. Besides, I saved you, so a trip isn't too much to ask."

Unsure how to handle her friend, Roxanne turned to Lucian for his opinion. Madilyn raised a hand, vowing, "I promise I won't bother you!"