Chapter 1929: An Important Secret
“Lucian, Roxanne, you’ve been up all night. Go upstairs and rest,” James urged after returning to the mansion and checking on his sleeping mother.
Realizing the unspoken words between the Lann father and son, Roxanne and Lucian tactfully withdrew, leaving them to communicate. Exhausted, they slept soundly and awoke after nine o’clock the next morning.
While washing up, they heard Yennefer calling from outside. “Roxanne, Lucian, breakfast!” She appeared cheerful, smiling at Roxanne with a satisfied expression.
Downstairs, James informed them he’d updated his mother that morning. Lucian’s nervousness was evident. “Everything? Her reaction? Is she willing to proceed?”
“No, Lucian, you misunderstand. I only explained the current timeline, mentioning her coma but omitting your marriage to Roxanne. I think she wants to help plan the wedding; she almost called Mrs. Farwell this morning!”
Roxanne and Lucian exchanged relieved glances. A false alarm. If James had revealed everything, Yennefer likely would have been overwhelmed.
“Roxanne, your suggestion led to my meeting with Mother. I worried my presence would upset her, but I didn’t expect her to be so happy,” James said, glancing at the garden where his parents tended plants. Yennefer was currently gently chiding Jones about their condition.
“James, trust Mrs. Lann. She’s just a little confused. You’ve always been very important to her,” Roxanne reassured him.
Lucian added, “Honestly, I think your presence calms Mrs. Lann. Remember the incident in Alendor? The gunshot might have made her fear for your safety.”
James fell into thoughtful silence, a smile eventually gracing his lips. “I guess I’m not good at self-diagnosis. I always imagine the worst. Thanks to you both, I understand the situation better.”
Roxanne and Lucian were pleased to see James’s relieved expression, as if a weight had been lifted. The psychological guidance could now begin, and this time, James didn't try to escape.
Yennefer returned, having finished her conversation with Jones. “James, entertain Lucian and Roxanne! It’s rare they visit. Bring out your father’s private coffee stash,” she said, greeting them warmly. She regretted missing their wedding due to illness.
Roxanne assured her it wasn’t a problem and promised to show her wedding photos later. Yennefer beamed. “I envy Sonya! Having such a talented daughter-in-law is a dream come true.”
“You flatter me, Mrs. Lann,” Roxanne replied modestly.
James served coffee, and soon Jones joined them, their conversation light and jovial, naturally turning to the children's antics. Yennefer was delighted, eager to meet them soon.
When the time felt right, James turned to his mother, calmly announcing, “Mom, there’s something I’ve always wanted to tell you. My most important secret. May I tell you privately?”