The next day, Roxanne worked late at the research institute, arriving home at seven o'clock. Entering the house, she was surprised to find Lucian in the living room. She remembered agreeing to rehearse the stage play after the children finished school, but hadn't expected him to simply let himself in.
"Mommy!" Archie and Benny exclaimed excitedly, their excitement drawing Estella's attention. Estella's initial disappointment vanished as she saw Roxanne. "Ms. Jarvis!" she shouted, running to embrace Roxanne before the boys could. Suppressing her discomfort, Roxanne patted Estella's head. "When did you arrive, Essie?"
"She came home with us!" Archie and Benny chirped before Estella could answer. Noticing Roxanne's frown, they added, "Essie really wanted to see you, so we let her come home, but she was unhappy you were so late, Mommy." Estella, overjoyed to see Roxanne, hadn't heard their explanation.
Roxanne's heart softened at Estella's unwavering gaze. "I'm sorry I kept you waiting, Essie." Estella shook her head; her happiness stemmed solely from seeing Roxanne, her earlier unhappiness born from fearing Roxanne was avoiding her.
After a few minutes, Lucian approached, his expression impassive. Roxanne's smile faltered as she met his gaze. "Mr. Farwell."
Lucian nodded slightly. "Essie came looking for you after school and hasn't eaten. Could you please prepare something for her?" Roxanne readily agreed.
Thrilled Estella would join them for dinner, Archie and Benny pulled her into the dining room. Roxanne simply shook her head and smiled at their eagerness. Her smile faded, however, remembering Lucian's presence. An awkward silence settled over the living room.
Even after Roxanne changed into her slippers, Lucian remained, his expression unchanged. Glancing at the children, she nodded at Lucian before entering the dining room.
The children quieted at her arrival, watching intently. Roxanne sat beside Estella, noticing Archie and Benny had reserved a place for her. Instinctively, she glanced at the living room, seeing Lucian seated alone on the couch. His side profile obscured his expression.
As if sensing her gaze, Lucian turned, meeting her eyes.