Several people were stunned by the voice. Roxanne's body instinctively stiffened. She knew Lucian well enough to imagine his frosty expression from his voice alone. Moreover, recent events made her uncomfortable facing him. However, Lucian had already entered the room.

Hugo noticed Lucian's keen gaze on Roxanne and his expression changed. "Mr. Farwell?" he said, unaware of Lucian's relationship with another woman besides Aubree. Nevertheless, Lucian's attitude toward Roxanne aroused Hugo's suspicion.

Recalling Roxanne toasting with Hugo, Lucian's expression turned cold. "Mr. Reynolds," he said, "you should be more careful when flirting with women. You shouldn't approach those with children." He gave Roxanne a meaningful glance.

Surprise flashed in Hugo's eyes. "Roxanne has children? I didn't see that coming."

Roxanne hadn't expected Lucian to publicly mention her children to provoke her. Her expression darkened. "Yes, I have two children," she said, "but that doesn't affect my life or my friendships. Mr. Farwell, you needn't worry about me."

The atmosphere chilled as Lucian turned to Hugo and his friends. Pursing his lips, he asked, "Are you sure you want to discuss this here?"

Their proximity to the dance floor, coupled with their striking appearances, attracted a crowd. Noticing the curious stares, Roxanne clenched her fists, suppressing her anger. Supporting Madilyn, she turned and left the bar.

Hugo instinctively wanted to follow, but stopped when he saw Lucian close behind Roxanne.

The cool night air sobered Roxanne as she reached the bar's entrance. As she was about to hail a taxi, she heard footsteps and Lucian's commanding voice: "Let me take you girls home."

Without looking back, Roxanne refused. "Mr. Farwell, that's not necessary. We can take a taxi."

Lucian's brows furrowed. "How long do you think you'll wait for a taxi here? Or are you willing to make Archie and Benny wait?"

Roxanne froze. She hadn't had time to explain her departure to Lysa, and didn't know what Madilyn had told the children. Could Archie and Benny be waiting for me? she wondered.

The lack of available taxis created a stalemate, further complicated by Madilyn falling asleep. Then, a car stopped. Lucian's stern profile was visible through the lowered passenger window. "Get in," he said.

Roxanne frowned at the order, but Madilyn, shivering in the cold, mistook the car for a taxi and got in.

Roxanne was shocked. She leaned over to get Madilyn out, but her friend was already asleep. After a moment's hesitation, Roxanne got in as well. "Thank you, Mr. Farwell," she said faintly. "I suppose I owe you one."

Lucian merely frowned, instructing the driver to take them to Roxanne's residence.

The ride was silent except for Madilyn's occasional mumbling. The atmosphere was heavy.

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