Chapter 923: Pick Me Up

Lucian stared at Roxanne with a grim expression. Even without explicit words, he sensed her continued suspicion. His expression darkened, his voice growing colder. "Since you're refusing my offer, Ms. Jarvis, I won't insist."

He turned and left the study. Roxanne watched him go, a complex emotion in her eyes. Confusion filled her; his visit, ostensibly to deliver herbs, left her questioning his true motives. She couldn't shake her doubts, despite his silence on any other matter. After some time, she left the study.

The children had finished dinner and were playing in the living room. Estella, noticing Roxanne, ran to her side, clinging to her leg. Roxanne was surprised to find Estella still there, implying Lucian hadn't yet left the house. She glanced around and saw him sitting on the couch, seemingly ignoring her presence.

Frowning slightly, Roxanne forced a smile for Estella, caressing her hair. Sensing her distress, Estella stared intently at Roxanne's face. Roxanne, aware of the children's sensitivity, tried to avert her gaze, but it was too late.

"Are you in a bad mood, Ms. Jarvis?" Estella asked, tugging gently at Roxanne's dress. Archie and Benny joined her, their gazes fixed on their mother.

Feeling embarrassed, Roxanne recalled her conversation with Lucian, blaming her current mood on him. She glanced at him; their eyes met. A sense of guilt washed over her, and she quickly looked away.

Lucian rose, his brows furrowed. "It's getting late. We should go home."

Estella clung to Roxanne, hesitant. Lucian remained emotionless. Roxanne, unable to disappoint the child, ruffled Estella's hair. "Be a good girl, Essie. Go home with your Daddy and get some rest. Archie, Benny, and I will pick you up tomorrow."

The thought of their camping trip cheered Estella. She glanced at Lucian, still expressionless, but his silence implied no objection to the trip. Relieved, she reluctantly released Roxanne's dress.

"Ms. Jarvis, you'll pick me up early tomorrow, right?" Estella asked before leaving.

Roxanne smiled and nodded.