Chapter 1854: Leverage

“You’re not the only one who negotiated a project tonight,” Lucian announced with a smile. “I, too, have agreed to an excellent business proposal.”

Roxanne froze. He hadn’t left the house. With whom had he done business? His secretive demeanor fueled her curiosity. What investment could have made him so happy?

It took some probing before Lucian finally revealed the news. “I’m investing in our talented designer, of course! Essie asked me to start a company for her. She wants to gain a foothold in the children’s apparel market.”

Roxanne was stunned. “Are you sure? Aren’t you afraid of making a loss? Essie is indeed talented, but this decision seems hasty. What if she loses money? I don’t want her to be under pressure.”

Lucian gazed at her steadily. After further reflection, Roxanne admitted she’d overthought it. Given the Farwell Group’s wealth, even if Estella bankrupted a company daily for ten years, it wouldn’t make a significant dent.

“Don’t worry,” Lucian said. “Estella has plenty of time to experiment. If she needs help, we’ll hire local designers to collaborate. Our child’s dream is what matters.”

Though Lucian could afford losses, he was strangely confident in his daughter’s designs.

“My dear, the father of my children, you’re spoiling them too much,” Roxanne teased.

Lucian was momentarily taken aback by his new moniker, finding it interesting. He immediately pulled her into an embrace. “We got married today, the mother of my children. Does that mean…”

Roxanne’s cheeks flushed crimson. She fell silent.

Taking her silence as consent, Lucian swept her up and carried her into the bedroom.

“The children aren’t asleep yet!” she protested.

“They want a younger sibling and are counting on us. We can’t let them down.”

Elektra arrived aboard the cruise ship to see Christina.

“Mr. Goldstein’s business obligations require me to return to Hawen tonight, but I’ve left several men behind to gather information. They can assist you at any time,” Christina said smoothly. “Feel free to call me if you need them.”

Leaving Horington this time felt different. Last time, she’d fled in a desperate state.

Elektra nodded, aware the men might also be watching her. The fragility of their alliance was unspoken but evident to both.

“I’m guessing Roxanne will likely agree. Gain her trust initially by being discreet and efficient. Do your work so flawlessly that even Lucian won’t suspect anything. Then, we strike,” Christina instructed.

Christina’s sharp eyes detected Elektra’s hesitation. This woman’s resolve is weak; she lacks hatred. I need to stoke the flames.

“I think you know what happened to the Pearson family. Since their marriage announcement, their relationship with the Lane family will only weaken. Your family will lose everything if you don’t fight for it.”

Elektra nodded, grudgingly admitting Christina was right. The partnership with Roxanne had to be successful.

“Understood. We’ll stick to the plan,” Elektra replied firmly.

A sudden weight on her heart made her realize it was too late to turn back. Her visits to Christina had been recorded, to be used against her.