Lucian carried Roxanne to their room. His eyes darkened upon seeing Estella sleeping near the edge of the large bed. At home, Estella slept soundly in one position all night. Was she restless now because of the new environment, or because of Roxanne's presence?

Gently setting Roxanne down, Lucian carried Estella to the center of the bed. "Daddy..." Estella murmured sleepily. Lucian caressed her cheek as she drifted back to sleep.

Once Estella was quiet, Lucian poured Roxanne a glass of water. Roxanne awoke to Lucian's concerned frown. "Drink some water. It'll help the hangover," he said softly.

Roxanne felt disoriented. Am I dreaming? A hangover? Did I even drink? "Lucian?" she asked hesitantly.

"Yes?"

It's really him, she thought, a pitiful expression creeping onto her face. Lucian frowned at the change in her demeanor. To his surprise, Roxanne leaned into him, rubbing her face against his chest.

Lucian froze, his gaze fixed on her. He dared not move. He hadn't expected such intimacy. Though he knew her actions stemmed from intoxication, he wanted to hold her close. He only refrained from hugging her tighter out of fear of disturbing her.

This is ridiculous, Lucian thought, surprised by his own longing. He'd never felt this way about anyone before Roxanne.

"Lucian..." she mumbled sleepily. His arms tensed. He wanted to reassure her of his presence.

Looking up at him, Roxanne murmured, "Why are you so cruel? Am I still not good enough? I love you so much, but you've never liked me." Her words cut him deeply.

The pain intensified as she continued, "Why? What must I do to make you love me? Tell me. I'll change. Why are you so quiet?" She reached for his face frantically. "What should I do to make you love me?"

A remorseful frown etched itself onto Lucian's face as he took her hands. "You're drunk, Roxanne."

A satisfied smile spread across her face at the sound of her name.