Chapter 917: Helpless

Lucian remained silent, his expression unreadable. Jonathan sighed in exasperation, taking in Lucian's reaction.

"Weren't you thinking of doing something romantic? What's more romantic than helping her when she needs it most?"

Lucian narrowed his eyes indifferently. "That's unnecessary. I'll do romantic things later. I won't help her this time; she brought this on herself. This mess wouldn't have happened if she'd stayed with Essie instead of going with Jack for those herbs that day."

He blamed her entirely for the fire. Jonathan, unaware of the events of the past two days, was baffled by Lucian's refusal.

Lucian offered no explanation, simply looking away. A moment later, Jonathan asked, "Lucian, what kind of relationship do you hope to have with Dr. Jarvis?" He didn't see Lucian actively pursuing Roxanne.

Lucian frowned silently.

"Let me rephrase," Jonathan said tactfully, smiling. "Do you still intend to pursue Dr. Jarvis?"

Lucian glanced at him impassively. Jonathan, understanding Lucian well, took this as tacit agreement. He inwardly breathed a sigh of relief. He'd assumed, wrongly, that Lucian and Roxanne had argued extensively, causing a change of heart in Lucian.

As long as he still planned to win her affection, it was fine. Dr. Jarvis was, in Jonathan's opinion, ideally suited to Lucian. It was rare for Lucian to actively pursue anyone, let alone Essie's mother. Their getting together would be wonderful.

This reinforced Jonathan's resolve to help them become a couple. He cleared his throat. "Then you should show Dr. Jarvis more consideration. This relationship won't work if you constantly fight."

Lucian shot him a displeased look. "Are you saying I'm the cause of the arguments?"

Jonathan was taken aback. He didn't know the reason for their disagreements, let alone who was to blame, but he advised, "Regardless of who starts the fight, you must be more tolerant if you want to pursue Dr. Jarvis. Women often hope the man will yield first. Besides, previously, you…"

Jonathan paused, giving Lucian a meaningful look. He was referring to the incident six years ago.

Lucian remained silent, as did Jonathan, waiting for Lucian to process this. After a while, Lucian said, "I understand."

Jonathan sighed in relief. "I'm glad. Don't blame me for speaking frankly. I have Essie's best interests at heart. Any child wants their mother nearby."

At the mention of Estella, Lucian's gaze darkened. He had to admit Jonathan was right; Estella's longing for Roxanne was even stronger than Jonathan had described. The thought of Estella's desperate wish for him to win Roxanne's affection left Lucian feeling helpless.