Chapter 953: Should Not Have Asked

Archie, Benny, and Estella watched Lucian walk away, exchanging worried glances. All three were reluctant to see him go. They had schemed to keep him for the night, hoping to create an opportunity for him and Roxanne to spend time together. If he left now, their efforts would be wasted. Besides, he was tall, and the car was cramped; sleeping in it would be torturous.

Their minds raced, searching for a way to change Lucian's mind. Meanwhile, Roxanne watched his retreating figure.

"Let's just squeeze in and make do with the space," she finally said, as he nearly disappeared from view.

Lucian immediately stopped and looked back. Roxanne lowered her eyes. "You can't stretch out in the car, you'll be terribly sore after a night there. There's room in the tent, and it's far more comfortable. If you don't mind, Mr. Farwell, we can manage for the night."

Though she avoided his gaze, she knew he would suffer sleeping in the car, given his height. Moreover, she felt responsible for the situation. He had only come to help, and she shouldn't deprive him of a good night's sleep.

The children were astonished that she'd taken the initiative. After a moment's stunned silence, they quickly agreed.

"I want to sleep with you, Daddy!" Estella whined, reaching for Lucian.

Archie and Benny chimed in, their voices childishly pleading, "Sleep with us, Mr. Farwell! We're a little scared."

Lucian's gaze swept over them, finally resting on Roxanne's face. He hadn't expected her invitation.

Roxanne's eyelashes fluttered under his gaze. She met his eyes, offering a reassuring smile.

Seeing her sincerity, Lucian's frown softened slightly. He turned and entered the tent, settling down near the children.

A mischievous glint shone in the children's eyes. Soon, Roxanne's gentle voice soothed them. "It's late, hurry and sleep."

The children contentedly closed their eyes. A while later, Estella opened hers and looked at Roxanne with pleading eyes.

"I can't sleep. Will you tell me a story, Ms. Jarvis?"

Roxanne, lying beside the children, waited for them to fall asleep before resting herself. She readily agreed to Estella's request, beginning a soft fairytale.

A soft nightlight cast a dim glow in the tent. From across the tent, Lucian watched the children and Roxanne, captivated by the scene. The children were adorable and well-behaved, and Roxanne's voice was gentle and warm. The sight was undeniably heartwarming. As the story ended, a tender expression softened his features.

Eventually, the three children fell asleep. Listening to their even breathing, Roxanne carefully lay down. Sleep, however, eluded her. Despite the children between her and Lucian, she was acutely aware of his presence. Regret gnawed at her. Ugh! She shouldn't have asked him to stay when he wanted to leave.