Chapter 2007: Dreamed of My Mom

“Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Farwell,” Grant said. “I deeply regret being an irresponsible father and causing Roxanne irreparable harm. However, you’ve taken on the role of parents to her and have been loving and caring. I sincerely hope you will continue to look after her.”

Grant’s parting words left a lasting impact on Elias and Sonya. Sonya felt conflicted; she didn’t believe she deserved to be called Roxanne’s mother, as Grant had stated. She had made many mistakes in the past but was trying to atone for them. Fortunately, she still had that opportunity, unlike Grant, who only recognized his failings at death’s door.

The children also visited Grant. The adults didn’t reveal the severity of his illness, telling them he was simply unwell. The children, believing it a minor ailment like a cold or fever, encouraged him to rest and drink plenty of water.

Grant was overcome with emotion, his eyes misting with regret and longing. Yet, he also felt a sense of peace. That night, Lucian and Roxanne arranged for an ambulance to transport him to the Jarvis residence—Madilyn’s wedding gift to Roxanne. Roxanne hesitated to return to the house where she’d lived with her mother, fearing the memories. Many years had passed since her last visit. Stepping inside, a wave of nostalgia washed over her, recalling her childhood and teenage years. The house was spotless, having been professionally cleaned.

Grant’s expression softened upon entering the old house. “Lucian, Roxanne, thank you,” he said. “I’m blessed to spend my remaining days here.”

“Dad, don’t worry,” Lucian reassured him. “I’ll hire help to care for you. Remember to take your medicine regularly. Roxanne and I will visit often.”

Grant was surprised by Lucian’s use of “Dad.” Roxanne nodded, then quickly left with Lucian. She couldn’t stay long; the house was too evocative of her mother. She knew she couldn’t dwell on sadness, for the sake of her unborn child.

The next day dawned sunny. Roxanne awoke smiling. “Did you dream well?” Lucian asked.

“I dreamed of my mom,” Roxanne said. “She told me I did a good job, and that Grant got on his knees to beg her forgiveness.”

Lucian chuckled. “Yes, you did great. Don’t worry about that anymore. What matters is our family having a good life from now on.”

Roxanne nodded, snuggling into his embrace. Lucian held her close, kissing her forehead gently. The children’s cheerful chatter and the sounds of them getting ready for the day drifted from the background as Elias and Sonya reminded them to gather their belongings. A calm peace settled over them.

“I’m going for a checkup today,” Roxanne said softly. “You should come.”

Lucian immediately nodded, a smile playing on his lips. “Of course. Even if your checkup wasn’t today, I’d still be here; I’m graduating soon.”

“Really? You never showed me anything! What did you learn?” Roxanne teased.

“I learned a lot,” Lucian replied. “Didn’t I remind you to take folic acid? And also…”