Chapter 152: A Gift of Apology (All content is property © NôvelDrama.Org)

Roxanne hesitated before asking, “These aren’t for Estella, are they?”

Lucian admitted immediately, “I bought these for Archie and Benny. I misspoke a few days ago. After returning home, I reconsidered my words and felt I should apologize, even though they are children. I noticed similar toys at your house and thought Archie and Benny would like these.”

Lucian then solemnly presented the boxes to Archie and Benny. “I’m sorry for what I said. I hope you like these.”

Archie and Benny looked delightedly at the toys. Boys typically love robots and race cars; however, Archie and Benny possessed significantly higher IQs than their peers, preferring more complex, high-tech toys. They had often asked Roxanne to buy them, but some were too expensive. Though they longed for these toys, they were sensible and didn't press the issue with Roxanne. Therefore, they were surprised Lucian knew their preferences.

Benny eagerly stepped toward Lucian, peering into the box. It contained every toy he coveted from the website—toys he’d nearly used Archie’s stock-trading earnings to purchase, much to Archie’s disapproval.

While Archie liked the toys, he couldn't forget Lucian abandoning his mother. He stood with a stern expression, yet couldn't resist looking inside the boxes. It was clear both boys desired Lucian's gifts.

Benny examined the toys for a long time before turning to his mother for her opinion. "If Mommy disagrees," he said, "I won't accept them, no matter how much I like them."

Roxanne observed Archie and Benny's expressions, starting to relent. However, she hesitated again, considering the gifts Lucian offered. She’d noticed them browsing these toy models and figurines online; they were highly sought-after, limited editions.

The race car model alone cost two hundred thousand, a price still rising due to market demand.

While she didn't want to prevent Lucian from apologizing, the gifts were excessively expensive.

Benny seemed to understand Roxanne's concerns. He gazed longingly at the models before returning to Archie's side. However, Roxanne relented at his disappointed expression. "That's thoughtful of you," she said. "My sons love these toys. However, they are very expensive. Please tell me the cost; I’ll transfer the money."

Lucian frowned. “I gave these as an apology; I can't ask you to pay. Besides, you must have considerable expenses for Estella. These are a small token from me, hardly sufficient to express my remorse. If you insist on paying, it negates the sincerity.”

Roxanne hesitated at his explanation. While the amount was insignificant to Lucian, she remained uncomfortable accepting the gifts.

Lucian understood her feelings. "If you insist on paying," he said solemnly, "then I should pay you far more for caring for Estella. You’ve vastly improved her condition. Would you accept that payment?"

Roxanne finally ceased her objections. She nodded toward Archie and Benny. “Since they’re Mr. Farwell’s gifts, you may accept them.”

Archie replied politely, though somewhat distantly, “Thank you, Mr. Farwell.”