Chapter 1652: Be Good and Stay Home

Lucian patiently answered each of the children's innocent questions. Though he anticipated them and found the answers easy enough, the task left him exhausted. Conjuring lies to match their naive expressions demanded considerable energy.

"Daddy, can't we go look for Mommy?" Estella asked suddenly. Having only recently reunited with Roxanne, she was loath to be separated, especially knowing her mother was so far away.

Lucian's face hardened at her question. He nearly succumbed to his sadness, but held it back, remaining silent for a moment before composing himself. He forced a smile, looking at the children.

"I'm very busy these days, so I can't take you. Mommy will only be gone for a week. She'll be back before your break."

He quickly diverted his gaze, pretending to eat, fearing his lie would be discovered. Fortunately, the children didn't dwell on it, expressing only mild disappointment.

"Why does Mommy have to be gone so long? I hope she'll be waiting for us when we get home Friday night…"

The emotions Lucian had suppressed surged again, the pain so intense it stole his breath. He swallowed hard before replying, "She will. When you come home, your mommy will definitely be waiting."

The children, sensing his fatigue, quieted and helped him with his dinner. Lucian's heart grew heavier; his meal had lost its appeal.

After dinner, the children clung to him, wanting to play. But Lucian couldn't bear their presence any longer. With a heavy heart, he entrusted them to Catalina and prepared to leave.

"Daddy, where are you going?" Archie asked, confused as Lucian reached the door. "Aren't you staying home tonight?"

A pained expression flickered across Lucian's eyes. He paused, rubbing his temples to regain composure before turning to his son.

"I have something to discuss with Mr. Queen, so I'll be staying at his place tonight. Be good, listen to Ms. Catalina, and go to bed early."

Archie observed his father's demeanor. Daddy's acting strange.

"Daddy, did something happen at the company?" Remembering Roxanne's earlier behavior, he suspected a work-related problem.

Lucian played along. "Yes, but it's nothing major. I can handle it. I'll just be rather busy for the next couple of days."

The memory of the children's tears when Roxanne faced trouble lingered. There was no need for them to know this time. They only needed to be obedient, stay home, and wait.

The children's playful demeanor shifted to seriousness at news of a company issue. Estella stepped forward, hugging Lucian. "Good luck, Daddy! You're the best!" Archie and Benny joined the embrace.

Lucian held his children close, slowly calming. "I got it. I'll do my best." He ruffled their hair, asking Catalina to take them to play before getting into his car and driving away.