Playing the part of the king, Lucian welcomed Archie and Benny, saying, "Welcome to the party, you adorable elves!" His tone, however, was so cold it clashed sharply with the scene's intended mood. Archie and Benny, consequently, struggled to remain in character.
Roxanne shot Lucian a helpless look. "This is a children's fairy tale, Mr. Farwell," she said. "You'll scare them off like that."
Lucian frowned, confused.
Roxanne explained, "You need to put more emotion into your lines. We just had a baby—you should sound happier." Immediately realizing her phrasing was awkward, she corrected herself, "The king and queen are celebrating their princess! You don't sound celebratory at all!" Her face flushed crimson.
Lucian stared at her silently.
"Try remembering how you felt when Essie was born," Roxanne prompted patiently.
A gloomy look crossed Lucian's face as he glanced at Estella. He thought, Her condition was terrible when I got her; I felt only anger and heartache. No excitement whatsoever… He wondered how Roxanne had felt giving birth to Estella.
Roxanne, sensing his misunderstanding, tried a different approach. "How do you address employees at Farwell Group company parties?"
"Just like that," Lucian replied flatly.
"Then," Roxanne began, wanting to suggest he avoid speaking altogether but remembering his numerous lines as the prince, she hesitated, "I'll say this line instead…" She trailed off, then awkwardly chuckled. "Never mind—let's skip this for now."
Lucian nodded.
Roxanne then took over, smiling at Archie and Benny. "Welcome to the party, you adorable elves!"
The children responded in character, smiling. "Thank you for the invitation, Your Majesty. Please allow us to give the princess our blessings!" They danced, waving wands and chanting magic words.
Roxanne was about to thank them when Estella, playing the witch, entered.
"You guys sure are bold!" she exclaimed, glaring.
Roxanne nearly laughed at Estella's cuteness. Feigning fear, she stumbled backward, only to be pulled into Lucian's embrace. "Who are you?" he asked, finally displaying some emotion.
Estella continued her lines. Roxanne, however, froze, stunned by the unexpected hug. Instinctively breaking free, she unintentionally disrupted the rehearsal. Estella paused, confused. "What's wrong, Mommy?" Benny asked worriedly.