Chapter 837: Assessing Lucian

Once Cayden's car had driven away, Roxanne led Archie and Benny into the living room. Recalling Cayden's words, she squatted, looking apologetically at her sons. "Have I spent too little time with you lately?"

Since her involvement in the Damaris family project, Roxanne had devoted most of her time to work. Had Lucian and Cayden not mentioned it, she wouldn't have realized it.

Archie and Benny shook their heads, sensing her guilt. "Your work is more important, Mommy. We're fine," Archie said. Benny added, "We'll take care of ourselves, and you!" Archie chimed in, "We understand you have to treat patients, and we hope you can save more lives." They were used to this lifestyle; it didn't bother them.

However, something else was on their minds—their little sister. Estella, in particular, had barely seen their mother.

Roxanne was about to breathe a sigh of relief when she noticed the boys' glum expressions. Concerned, she asked, "What is it? Do you think I've been too busy?" A crease formed between her eyebrows. She apologized, "Right now, my work is crucial. Once things settle down, I'll definitely spend more time with you!"

Archie and Benny nodded obediently. "We understand! Still, can you bring Essie along, too?"

Hearing Estella's name, Roxanne thought of Lucian, a hesitant expression slowly appearing on her face. "Mommy, Essie misses you a lot, too," the boys urged.

Estella's pitiful face flashed in Roxanne's mind. Her heart softened. She smiled, "All right, I promise I'll take all three of you out when the time comes."

The boys cheered. Curious, Roxanne asked, "What did you say to Essie earlier?" Why had she given in so easily?

Archie and Benny exchanged a knowing smile. "It's a secret!"

Roxanne was startled. This had happened before; she had no idea what they'd told Estella. The three children seemed to be hiding something. Feigning a stern expression, she asked, "Tell me. Are you hiding something from me?"

The boys, knowing she wouldn't actually scold them, headed toward the stairs, giggling. "We're so tired, Mommy. We'll go to bed now! You should too!" They ran upstairs without waiting for her reply.

Roxanne felt amused yet helpless. These two…they understood her completely, yet didn't take her seriously! It was clear they were hiding something, but she didn't know what. She believed her children wouldn't do anything truly wrong; she just wanted to help if she could.

Meanwhile, upstairs, Archie and Benny breathed a sigh of relief. Mommy had noticed their plotting! As long as they remained silent, she wouldn't guess their plan. They would never tell their mother that Estella had gone back to assess Lucian's attitude.