Chapter 712: Exceptional Acting Skills

Lucian, standing on the landing, frowned subtly at Roxanne's offer. He turned, regarding her by the bedroom door with puzzlement. Roxanne's lowered eyes and slightly furrowed brows suggested regret. Lucian smirked cryptically. "You don't need to force yourself, Ms. Jarvis. I won't change my mind because of a meal."

Tilting his head, he spun and descended the stairs. Roxanne's eyes lifted at the sound of his movement. Sighing inwardly, she repeated, "Let's have dinner together. Essie would definitely be sad if you left."

The remark was for both Lucian and herself. His mention of her six years prior stirred memories of her departure and his lonely figure. Though her pain then stemmed from him, her soft heart prevented her from wishing the same sorrow on others.

Lucian paused, his gaze darkening, his heart clenching. He understood her reason for wanting him to stay, and this only intensified his self-reproach.

"I'll consider your feelings seriously," Roxanne relented, "but I hope you can give me a bit more time."

When Lucian turned, his expression had returned to its usual indifference. "Thank you," he said. Roxanne smiled, a mix of emotions swirling within her. They descended the stairs, one after the other.

Downstairs, the children played with Legos. The sound of footsteps sent them sprinting to the landing, their gazes fixed eagerly on Lucian and Roxanne, curious about the outcome of their conversation.

After a while, Benny blurted, "Are you mad, Mommy?"

Roxanne paused. Remembering their earlier behavior, she asked, "Did you guys do it on purpose?"

Their expressions stiffened momentarily. Fortunately, their acting skills were exceptional. Innocent expressions quickly replaced the tension. "Did we do something wrong?" Archie confessed, "I'm sorry, Mommy. I was too competitive. I might have bumped into you."

Roxanne eyed them suspiciously before sighing in exasperation. Even if they had done something, she couldn't be sure. Their innocence was unconvincing.

She dismissed her suspicions, patting their heads. "I'm not mad. I'm just a bit tired."

The children skeptically glanced at Lucian, who gave them a casual nod. Relieved that the adults had reconciled, smiles bloomed on their faces.

Lucian and Roxanne played with them for a while longer. The children, though cautious, enjoyed themselves immensely. As evening fell, Roxanne gathered the trio and they helped prepare dinner. The children were delighted to participate.