Chapter 1727: Thank You For Your Help

“She’s going to be fine,” Lucian said, though even he struggled to find the words to explain the truth to the children. If Roxanne were conscious, she wouldn't want them to worry. His words, while not a direct answer, confirmed Estella’s unspoken anxieties.

The children vaguely sensed something serious had happened to their mother. Estella bowed her head, too distraught to speak. Benny, though upset, maintained a stoic exterior, accustomed to strength from years of Roxanne's care.

“I’m sorry,” he murmured, blaming himself. “If I’d made the effort to learn some medical knowledge from Mommy, I wouldn’t be so helpless now.” Archie could help find herbs, but Benny felt useless, simply waiting.

Lucian, noticing Benny's self-reproach, patted his head. “Waiting quietly is the biggest help you can give Mommy and Daddy.”

Benny’s eyes reddened. “I wonder how Mommy’s doing,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “But Archie is very capable. I’m sure he’ll help.”

Lucian’s heart ached. Roxanne was critical, the children were terrified, and now Benny blamed himself. He didn't know how to comfort them. In Lucian’s arms, Benny finally broke down, resting his head against Lucian’s shoulder and secretly wiping away tears.

“I want Daddy to hug me too!” Estella cried, rushing over with red eyes and nose.

Lucian embraced her. “Don’t be scared. I’m here. I won’t let anything happen to Mommy. I promise.”

Leaning against him, the children sobbed, releasing the tension of the past few days. Exhaustion finally overcame them, and they fell asleep in his arms. Even in sleep, tears flowed, punctuated by occasional choked sobs. Lucian gently wiped away their tears.

“Roxanne will surely be fine,” Jonathan murmured, his voice hoarse, his own eyes brimming.

Lucian nodded, then looked up at his friend. “Thank you for your help.”

Jonathan frowned. “How many times must I tell you? We’re practically family. There’s no need to thank me. Besides, Roxanne is my family’s benefactor; helping her is the least I can do.”

Lucian continued, seemingly ignoring Jonathan’s words. “If you hadn’t helped find Old Mr. Lomax, there wouldn’t have been anyone else who could help Roxanne develop the antidote. And even if there were, I wouldn’t have been comfortable with it.” Jonathan had tirelessly assisted Old Mr. Lomax since his arrival.

Jonathan frowned. “If Roxanne hadn’t saved my grandfather, he would have died. But this isn’t the time for this. Calm down, Lucian. Roxanne is going to be okay.”

He understood Lucian’s distress. This level of emotional turmoil was unlike him.