Chapter 1547: Dreaming of Her

After the children finished their desserts, Roxanne led them back to kindergarten. Returning to the car, she saw Lucian's nonchalant expression and couldn't resist asking, "Since when did I agree to go to the movies with you this afternoon?"

Throwing her a glance, Lucian replied matter-of-factly, "I apologize for taking the liberty. Otherwise, you wouldn't have agreed."

Roxanne, her thoughts apparently read, averted her gaze. She guessed Lucian considered the entire day a date, but it felt too sudden.

When she remained silent, Lucian's eyes darkened. "We can watch it another day if you're upset. I'll get the children's gifts this afternoon."

Detecting the disappointment in his voice, Roxanne quickly shook her head, smiling. "It's not that. I just thought I should have dressed up."

Lucian's affectionate look followed immediately. "That's not necessary. You always look gorgeous to me."

Roxanne's cheeks flushed at his romantic words. "Even the waitress couldn't stop staring at you earlier," Lucian teased, starting the car.

Roxanne retorted, "She was ogling you. I didn't even wear makeup today." She wore minimal makeup on workdays and dressed simply. Without Lucian's intervention, she likely wouldn't have been admitted to the restaurant.

Lucian teased, "Jealous, Ms. Jarvis?"

Looking out the window, Roxanne gasped at his words. When she remained silent, Lucian stopped teasing and resumed driving. "The movie's this evening; let's shop for the children's gifts first."

Roxanne nodded. After parking, they took the elevator into the mall. As they walked, Roxanne recalled Lucian coaxing her into buying matching outfits with Estella last time.

Just as Lucian was about to ask her opinion on something, he noticed her distracted expression. "What's on your mind?"

Regaining her composure, Roxanne offered a melancholic smile. "The last time we were here... Essie and I bought matching outfits. Back then—"

"Back then, I was aware of your relationship with her, and Essie wanted a mother. But I didn't tell her because I assumed you'd abandoned her. I could only help fulfill her wish, and fortunately, you were kind enough to play along," Lucian finished her sentence, his tone regretful.

The mention of Estella's past saddened Roxanne. "I could never abandon her. Throughout the years, I've yearned for her, even in my dreams." Furrowing her brows, she looked at Lucian. "I wonder who was cruel enough to separate us, mother and daughter—who made me believe Essie died at birth!"

Seeing the pain and hatred in her eyes, Lucian embraced her. "I was wrong. Now that I know the truth, I'll do my best to find that person!"

Roxanne finally calmed, sensing Lucian's steady breath.