Chapter 630

As soon as Estella heard that, she lifted her hands to wipe away her tears, then smiled, raising her head. Roxanne was shocked to see the girl's tears. "I'm sorry for upsetting you," she said, bending to caress the girl's cheeks.

Estella shook her head earnestly, then ran to Lucian, retrieved tickets from her school bag, and gave them to Roxanne. The woman, conflicted, accepted them. Before she could speak, Estella exclaimed, "Goodbye, Ms. Jarvis!" Fearing Roxanne might change her mind, she quickly waved and entered the kindergarten, adding, "See you at the concert!"

Roxanne swallowed her words, giving Estella a slight nod. The three children then joined hands and entered the kindergarten, leaving Roxanne and Lucian alone. Lowering her eyes to the tickets, she felt Lucian's intense, yet unreadable, gaze. A turmoil of emotions surged within her.

Agreeing to attend the concert with Essie meant spending more time with Lucian. The old Roxanne might have convinced herself it would only be a short time. But after yesterday's incident, she was apprehensive. She had no idea what he might say or do.

Lost in thought, she heard Lucian's voice. He raised his brows meaningfully, saying, "Thank you for accepting. I'll pick you up on the day of the concert."

Roxanne frowned, replying without hesitation, "Don't bother. I'll bring Archie and Benny myself. I won't trouble you, Mr. Farwell." She didn't want to risk others misinterpreting their relationship as a family. She stared at him, nerves taut, having already considered how she would refuse if he insisted.

Unexpectedly, Lucian was indifferent. "That's fine. We'll see you at the entrance, then." He turned and left without waiting for a reply. Roxanne thought she detected a hint of smugness, though she wondered if it was her imagination.

Only when Lucian's car disappeared did she return to reality. He'd planned this to prevent her refusal! She'd been hesitant about the concert, but his words shifted her focus to logistics. She'd silently acquiesced. The thought overwhelmed her with frustration.

Meanwhile, Lucian sped toward the office, Roxanne's earlier expression flashing through his mind. Thinking of how easily she'd been manipulated, he smiled faintly. It was the first time he'd played such a trick, and he looked forward to the concert.