Chapter 952: We Looked Like a Family

After hearing Lucian’s explanation, Estella nodded obediently. Lucian, foregoing further inquiries about her illness, steered the conversation toward the camping trip.

As expected, Estella’s attention shifted instantly. “I had tons of fun!” she exclaimed, curling her fingers one by one as if recounting the day's events to ensure her father’s belief. “Ms. Jarvis gave me a lovely flower wreath, and we had a delicious barbecue. Benny and Archie even gave me some beautiful pebbles!”

Estella’s recounting of the day's joyful events seemed to diminish the severity of her stomachache. Lucian’s expression softened as he listened.

Roxanne performed another check-up on the children. Her prior research on the bacterium had guided her to the correct traditional medicine, resulting in immediate relief. After confirming their recovery, she felt a wave of relief. Turning to Lucian, she said, “It’s late. Let’s go home.”

Lucian nodded. Just as he was about to rise, Archie, his eyes full of anticipation, spoke sweetly, “Mommy, can we stay a little longer? We haven’t slept in the tent yet!” He tugged at Roxanne’s clothing and pointed at the night sky. “Look! It’s so beautiful!”

Roxanne hesitated, then firmly replied, “No, we can’t. Benny and Essie just recovered; they need to rest. We’ll come back again.” She didn’t want to stay, not only because of the children’s recent illness, but also because she wished to avoid spending the night with Lucian.

Archie’s disappointment was evident. He subtly signaled Benny and Estella, who immediately understood. Estella, with a pitiful expression, tugged at Lucian’s shirt. “Daddy, I’m so tired.” Benny, frowning, pressed his hand to his stomach. “Mommy, I think my stomach still hurts a little…”

Their acting skills were impeccable. Given the day’s events, Roxanne didn’t question their claims. The thought of Benny, ill all afternoon, enduring a bumpy mountain road swayed her. “In that case,” she conceded, “we’ll stay the night.”

The children’s gazes shifted to Lucian, who, prioritizing their health, readily agreed. They settled the children into the tent.

Looking at the now-empty space, Roxanne hesitated. Besides the tent, there were no other suitable sleeping areas. The prospect of Lucian sleeping near her and the children felt odd. It would make them look like a real family…

Before she could decide, Lucian’s deep voice broke the silence. “You should rest. I’ll sleep in the car.” He left the tent.