Chapter 657

Roxanne awoke to the sound of laughter from downstairs early the following morning. Her mind had been so chaotic the previous night that she’d fallen asleep only after a long time, leaving her with a throbbing headache.

She glanced at the clock. She wanted more sleep, but the laughter persisted. With no other option, Roxanne crawled out of bed and walked to her door, eyes still half-closed.

Looking down from the stairs, she saw Madilyn playing with the two children in the living room. A helpless sigh escaped Roxanne's lips. This woman lived nearby, yet they hadn't heard from her in days, only to be roused from sleep now.

"Mommy!" The boys looked up as Roxanne’s door opened. Madilyn followed their gaze. Seeing Roxanne's pale complexion, her smile faltered, replaced by worry. "Did we wake you?"

Roxanne nodded, massaging her temples. "Why are you here today?"

Sensing Roxanne's discomfort, Madilyn stopped playing. "What's wrong? Are you unwell? You look terrible."

Archie and Benny gazed at their mother with concerned, guilty expressions.

Roxanne sighed, meeting their worried gazes. "It's nothing. I just didn't sleep well last night, and then you woke me."

Madilyn pulled the children close. "Go get some more sleep. I'll take them outside."

Roxanne shook her head. "I can't fall back asleep. Carry on. I'll be down soon." She turned to wash up.

Meanwhile, Madilyn addressed the boys. "It's your fault! I told you to be quiet!"

The boys indignantly crossed their arms, glaring at their godmother.

Roxanne soon joined them downstairs, yawning. Madilyn had brought breakfast; the children had already eaten, and Roxanne's portion was waiting.

Madilyn brought the boys to the table, sitting beside Roxanne. "What were you thinking about last night? You looked like you were up all night."

Exasperation flickered in Roxanne's eyes as she recalled the reason for her sleeplessness. She shook her head. "It's nothing. I had some alcohol at a party last night. That's why I didn't sleep well."

Madilyn eyed the boys suspiciously. They nodded, though uncertain.

Satisfied, Madilyn frowned. "Don't be so hard on yourself. You might not worry about your health, but these kids do." She looked down at the children, who nodded in agreement.

Roxanne smiled. "All right. Besides, I'm not the only one guilty. You've been swamped with work lately, haven't you?"

Madilyn rolled her eyes. "Ugh. I had no choice." The hospital had been severely understaffed for days, forcing her into a hectic month. Now, with some free time, she’d decided to visit Archie and Benny.