Chapter 901: Accepted Readily

Roxanne frowned subtly, unsure how to refute the implication. Across from her, Estella's displeasure grew as Roxanne not only declined the dinner invitation but also remained silent for a long time after her father's comment.

“Are… Are you mad at Daddy, Ms. Jarvis?” Estella tugged gently on Roxanne’s sleeve.

Startled, Roxanne looked at the little girl with mixed emotions. Estella sniffled, miserable. Though she didn’t understand the adults’ disagreement regarding Herbscape Group, she sensed tension. Daddy had forgiven Ms. Jarvis, but now she seemed angry with him. She glared at her father, her irritation evident.

Lucian suppressed his displeasure, remaining silent. Roxanne paused before patting Estella’s head. “No, I just don’t want to trouble Ms. Catalina.”

“It’s just two more dishes; no trouble at all. I’ll do it immediately,” Catalina interjected, smiling.

Roxanne choked; she hadn’t agreed, only trying to comfort Estella. Before she could speak, Archie and Benny chimed in.

“It’s been ages since we had your cooking, Ms. Catalina! We’d love your signature meatballs!”

Catalina readily agreed. Their comment was tantamount to accepting the dinner invitation, and she’d already gone downstairs to prepare. Roxanne swallowed her objection and acquiesced. Lucian remained silent.

However, it was still his house. After hesitating, Roxanne murmured, “Sorry for troubling you, Mr. Farwell.”

Lucian gave her an inscrutable look before entering his study. With time before dinner, Roxanne played with the children. Only when Catalina called them did they go downstairs. She expected Lucian to remain absent, given his earlier attitude.

To her surprise, he descended the stairs as they sat down, taking a seat opposite her.

“Ms. Catalina’s grilled fish is delicious, Ms. Jarvis!” Estella gave Roxanne a piece, pulling her from her thoughts.

Smiling, Roxanne thanked her. “Thank you, Essie.” Estella returned a docile smile, then gave Lucian a piece of fish. He inclined his head slightly, silent.

Archie and Benny, imitating Estella, gave their mother food before glancing timidly at Lucian. Noticing their intent, Lucian glanced at Roxanne before subtly nodding his assent. They then served him, one after the other. He accepted readily.

Roxanne stared at her children, her emotions complex. Madilyn’s earlier question echoed—had they learned about their relationship with Lucian? Even so, their behavior seemed unusual. She remembered their aversion to the topic of their biological father. Perhaps she was overthinking. She suppressed her thoughts and began eating.