Chapter 1557: Never Believe Him Again

Six years apart. After their reunion, Roxanne resisted Lucian's touch. Having finally accepted him, he naturally sought to reclaim lost time. He'd planned a two-day respite for her, but her captivating presence that day overwhelmed him. Her seriousness during negotiations with Jack, and the evident love she showed him while shopping, severely tested his self-control. Seeing her in the dress he'd chosen pushed him over the edge.

Their kiss was prolonged, leaving Roxanne breathless and fearful of Catalina and the children's unexpected return. She pushed him away. Only then did Lucian remove his hand from her hair, gently tracing her lips. Roxanne recoiled. "What's with you?" she asked.

The intense love in his eyes brought back their passionate night. Her heart leaped. "Since the Farwells have moved out, the guest room is free," she murmured guiltily. "I'll take it tonight. I'll change the sheets."

She fled. Lucian scooped her up in a bridal carry. "Whoa!" she gasped. Instinctively, she wrapped her arms around his neck.

"Since you moved in," he stated firmly, "I've never considered you staying in the guest room."

Roxanne was embarrassed and annoyed, but mindful of the children, she protested softly, "Put me down! They'll be looking for me!"

Lucian remained unmoved. "Catalina will care for them. She looked after them wonderfully while you were away."

"I still need rest!" she whispered.

Hesitation flickered in Lucian's eyes, sparking hope in Roxanne. But he resumed his stride. "I'll be gentle," he said. Roxanne's face fell.

The next morning, her waist ached. Lucian's slightly hoarse voice startled her. "You're awake?"

Roxanne looked up, defiance blazing at his indulgent smile. He began massaging her waist. "I stopped when you fell asleep last night," he said.

Roxanne's brows furrowed. "I passed out?" she asked incredulously, her face flushing crimson. She rolled away, refusing to face him.

Lucian's expression turned sullen. "I didn't realize you were so tired. I'll be more careful next time, and let you rest. I'll never—"

Roxanne sat up, her voice weak. "There's no next time! I want the guest room!"

Lucian, having tasted her, wouldn't let her escape. But acknowledging his transgression, he relented with a smile. "All right. You take the master bedroom, I'll take the guest room. Rest. I'll take the kids to kindergarten and be back soon." He helped her lie down, then showered.