Chapter 785

Aubree frowned at Sonya's agreement with Lucian's arrangement. She wanted to speak, but Sonya wasn't looking at her.

"Sit down and eat with us," Sonya said to Lucian. Aubree's eyes lit up; she hoped Sonya would use this opportunity to speak well of her. Anticipating this, she looked at Lucian. "You've been busy all morning, Lucian. I bet you're tired. Come over and have something."

Lucian looked at them expressionlessly. "No, thank you. I need to pick up Essie. Enjoy yourselves." He turned to leave.

Sonya called out, stopping him. "You should visit Aubree when you have time and speak to Mr. Pearson on her behalf, if you can."

Lucian, his back to them, frowned with annoyance, grunted, and strode away.

In the car, he hesitated before driving to Roxanne's. Roxanne was having lunch with the children. Following Benny's earlier comments, they'd been watching her inquisitively all morning, shadowing her every move. Fearing they'd bring up last night again, Roxanne struggled to keep them occupied. She felt utterly exhausted, more tired than ever before from caring for the children—all thanks to Lucian.

"Mommy," Benny called.

Roxanne looked at him, confused. "Is Mr. Farwell going to have lunch with us?" Anticipation shone on Benny's face. He'd recalled his mother only asking his father to return to the manor for disinfection. Since Essie was at their house, Daddy would probably come for lunch!

Roxanne was speechless. Why would he think Lucian would join them? "He probably—" she started to say it was unlikely, when the doorbell rang.

Benny leaped up and ran to the door. "It must be Mr. Farwell!"

Roxanne felt a mix of emotions seeing his excitement. She'd expected Benny to be disappointed if it wasn't Lucian. Then she heard the boy's cheerful voice: "Mr. Farwell!"

Startled, Roxanne stood and looked towards the door. Lucian stood calmly, wearing the same shirt as that morning. His large hand rested gently on Benny's head as he looked at Roxanne.

Their eyes met, and Roxanne looked away. She remembered last night and wondered how to face him. His timing was impeccable. She couldn't let Essie leave with him mid-meal, but sharing a meal with him would undoubtedly make the children notice her strange behavior.

As she considered her options, Benny enthusiastically invited Lucian. "Come and eat with us, Mr. Farwell!"

Roxanne's heart leaped.

Lucian raised an eyebrow. "I'd love to, but I think you should ask your Mommy."