Roxanne immediately refuted, "I think you're mistaken. We're merely acquaintances, not close."

Cassandra raised an eyebrow and tried her luck. "In that case, could we switch our groupings for the play?" she hoped Roxanne would agree, allowing her to partner with Lucian. Even if she didn't get Lucian, she'd be happy to have such a handsome "prince."

Roxanne was excited by Cassandra's suggestion but hesitated, remembering Jeffrey's words. "Can we still switch now?" she asked uncertainly.

Cassandra, sensing Roxanne's agreement, nodded excitedly. "As long as we both agree, I don't see why not. We just need to inform Ms. Ward." Roxanne, hopeful, nodded. She didn't anticipate any objections from Jeffrey and Pippa since Cassandra initiated the switch and they both consented. Jeffrey had previously been unable to accommodate a switch due to scheduling difficulties with other parents.

After reaching an agreement, the two women returned to their seats, planning to inform Pippa later.

Archie and Benny led Roxanne to their seats, and her jaw dropped. She hadn't realized the boys were seated next to Estella, meaning she'd be sitting next to Lucian!

"Mommy..." The boys gently nudged her, noticing her stunned silence.

Roxanne, snapping out of her shock, gave them a forced smile and sat down awkwardly, her body tense.

"I see Ms. Jarvis is quite popular," Lucian said sarcastically. "Didn't know you were so chummy with the other parents..."

Roxanne frowned, puzzled by his mocking tone. She saw him staring stonily at Cassandra, who blushed under his gaze. Lucian furrowed his brow in disdain and looked away.

Roxanne gave him a wry smile. "If you're referring to that lady, it's all thanks to you, Mr. Farwell."

Lucian's gaze darkened. Knowing she wouldn't explain further, he let it drop.

Pippa then entered with a late-arriving parent. After settling everyone, she did a headcount, pleased with full attendance. "Since everyone's here, let's begin discussing the play scripts."

Before the discussion started, Roxanne stood abruptly. "Ms. Ward, Ms. Clark and I would like to switch groups."

Everyone was stunned. They couldn't understand why she'd give up Lucian.

Pippa looked to Lucian for his opinion. He frowned, indignation in his eyes. Estella looked anguished.

Understanding Lucian's feelings, Pippa found herself in a difficult position. Turning to Roxanne, she tried to dissuade her. "Ms. Jarvis, the groups were finalized. Besides, Archie and Benny get along well with Estella, so..."

Roxanne hesitated, but hardened her resolve. "I've discussed it with Ms. Clark, and she agrees."

Pippa was caught in the middle, unable to refuse yet wary of Lucian's reaction.