Chapter 815: Opportunity

Roxanne watched her guests enter, a self-deprecating smile playing on her lips. A week’s absence hadn’t dulled her perception of the man's intentions. Seeing him now, she was struck by the illusion that Estella served merely as a pretext for his visit. She’d almost forgotten their relationship's end following Lucian's competition with Jack. Presumably, Estella had coaxed Lucian into this visit.

Lost in thought, Roxanne refocused, closing the door behind her. In the dining room, Archie and Benny greeted Lucian and Estella with excited chatter. "Have you eaten yet, Essie?" they asked with concern.

Estella shook her head. "I was eager to see Ms. Jarvis. Daddy hasn't eaten either!"

"Then join us!" the boys chorused, their eyes turning expectantly to Roxanne.

Smiling, Roxanne addressed Lucian. "I assume you haven't eaten, Mr. Farwell. Please, join us."

Their ambiguous relationship's conclusion allowed her to treat Lucian as a friend without reservation. A strange feeling stirred in Lucian as Roxanne extended the invitation. He sought to decipher her expression, but she'd already entered the kitchen.

Soon, she returned with extra place settings. Concerned, she asked Estella, "Did you come to play with the boys, Essie?"

The little girl shook her head, gazing earnestly at Roxanne. "I'm here to thank you, Ms. Jarvis."

Roxanne was puzzled, subconsciously glancing at Lucian, wondering if he knew the reason. Their eyes met—he'd been watching her. Stunned momentarily, she composed herself. "Is that so? What do you have to thank me for?"

"For treating Daddy and me!" Estella replied adorably. "I baked a cake for you, Ms. Jarvis." She looked innocently at her father. "Daddy can prove I worked hard, didn't I, Daddy?"

Though Estella expressed gratitude, her true aim was to bring Roxanne and Lucian closer. I can't believe Daddy isn't seizing this opportunity! she mused. I'll have to help him.

Lucian, understanding Estella's intentions, nodded in agreement. "She pestered Catalina to teach her for a week. Catalina said she did quite well."

Roxanne nodded awkwardly, maintaining a cheerful expression as she turned to Estella. "You know how to bake? How clever!"

Archie and Benny, grasping Estella's plan, chimed in excitedly, "We want to learn too, Essie!"

Estella nodded. Then, their voices softening, they looked at Lucian and Roxanne with pleading eyes. "But we're scared of ruining Essie's cake. Can you help us, Mommy and Mr. Farwell?"