The colorful, dazzling fireworks emblazoned the sky. Everyone simultaneously quieted, gazing upward at the breathtaking night sky. Only the band's music echoed across the beach. Seemingly in tune with the tranquil ambiance, the band subtly shifted to a more relaxing piece. Benny paused briefly before smoothly recapturing the rhythm.

Holding Archie's hand, Roxanne watched the bursting fireworks, then turned to Benny, a heartfelt grin spreading across her face. Beside her, Estella grasped her father's hand, jumping to get a better view, but she was too short. The crowd obscured her vision. Lucian glanced down at Estella, bent slightly, lifted her onto his shoulder, and her eyes shone with delight at the fireworks.

Meanwhile, Archie, unable to see the fireworks, felt a pang of disappointment watching Estella on Lucian's shoulder. If Daddy hadn't abandoned Mommy and us, he thought, perhaps Benny and I could be there too…

Roxanne sensed Archie's dejection. "Archie, can you not see the fireworks?" she asked, concern etched on her face. Though crestfallen, he shook his head. "I can see some. It's all right, Mommy."

Roxanne remembered Archie's excited anticipation that afternoon. His thoughtful acquiescence now pierced her with guilt. If it weren't for my selfish decision, she thought, Archie and Benny would have a happier life.

Archie sensed her remorse. He squeezed her hand. "We'll come again next time. I'm very happy we found Benny this time." He curved his lips into a bright smile, reassuring her.

Roxanne's guilt intensified. "Come here. I'll carry you," Lucian's deep voice offered from above.

Archie looked up, meeting Lucian's tender gaze. Hesitantly, he turned to Roxanne for her approval. After a moment's hesitation, she stepped back. "Thank you, Mr. Farwell," she said. She had deprived Archie and Benny of paternal affection for too long. Though their relationship with Lucian was still developing, she wouldn't deny them this opportunity any longer.

Archie's eyes gleamed at his mother's agreement, yet he still hesitated, sensing her reluctance toward Lucian. He felt like he was betraying her by letting Lucian lift him.

"If you don't hurry, the fireworks will end," Lucian prompted, his brows raised slightly at Archie's ambivalence.

Roxanne offered a reassuring look. "Let Mr. Farwell lift you so you can see the fireworks."

Finally, Archie reached out to Lucian. With Estella on one side, Lucian effortlessly lifted Archie onto the other.

It was the first time Archie had been so high. A look of delighted surprise washed over his face as he saw a sea of heads below. Then, he gazed back at the night sky as fireworks exploded nearby.