Chapter 676

Her words caused Lucian to frown as he studied her intently. If he hadn't misheard, Roxanne seemed to be wavering.

Roxanne blinked when their eyes met, then quickly averted her gaze with a practiced calmness. A moment later, Lucian's deep voice murmured beside her ear. "I never liked Aubree romantically, and I'll never marry her. There's nothing to explain."

Shock flashed across Roxanne's face. Six years ago, she would never have believed this from him. He'd never liked Aubree? She vividly remembered his announcement that he would only marry Aubree, even resorting to emotional abuse to drive her away. What about that?

Lucian, watching her every expression, saw her shock and frowned. Knowing her thoughts, he apologized softly, "What happened six years ago was my fault. You can blame me, and I won't complain."

This left Roxanne speechless and even more stunned. She never expected an apology for the past.

"You—" Roxanne finally found her voice. "You don't need to do this. I told you we could consider ourselves strangers, owing each other nothing."

"But I don't plan for us to be strangers," Lucian interrupted, his brow furrowing.

Roxanne frowned, keeping her gaze lowered. Lucian continued, his eyes fixed on her. "I'm being honest because, like you, I have a question. I hope you'll be equally frank."

Roxanne lifted her head, a bemused look on her face. Then, his voice rang out. "What is your relationship with Larry?"

Larry Morrison had always been a thorn in his side, a constant reminder of their private meetings. They seemed close whenever Lucian saw them together; Larry even knew about Lucian and Roxanne's relationship. How close were they?

Roxanne's brows drew together, a serious expression replacing her surprise. "I've told you many times Larry and I are just friends. He helped me greatly during a difficult time. Mr. Farwell, please stop. Your questions are troubling both of us!"

Lucian had questioned her repeatedly, and Roxanne was growing frustrated. She'd expected him to drop it, but he continued without hesitation. "What about Jack? What's your relationship with him?"

Roxanne was dumbfounded. Why was he asking? She hadn't known Jack long. Why would he think there was anything between them? A puzzled look crossed her face as she noted his serious expression; he genuinely seemed worried about a romantic involvement with Jack.