Chapter 1460

Roxanne carried the tableware to the kitchen, initially intending to take Lucian to the study. To her surprise, he stood at the kitchen door, sleeves rolled up, head bowed. Before she could react, he strolled over, casually drying a bowl she had washed. This seemingly mundane action startled her; it felt intimately familiar, as if they were a long-married couple. The image of the Farwell Group CEO in her kitchen, seemingly stepping down from his pedestal, was profoundly shocking.

Then, Lucian nonchalantly explained his visit: "My father wants to pick Essie up from kindergarten tomorrow."

"Have you agreed?" Roxanne asked, recalling his previous stipulation about parental consent.

"Yes. He seems to misunderstand my mother's relationship with you. I think he should see for himself," Lucian replied. He knew his father suspected Roxanne's involvement in Estella's hostility toward Sonya. Allowing his father to witness the situation firsthand addressed this concern.

Roxanne nodded. "Essie might be reluctant to leave me. I'll talk to her."

Lucian offered a grateful look. "Thank you."

Roxanne chuckled lightly. "They raised Essie. It's natural for grandparents to miss their grandchild. She's stubborn, though. I'll do my best." Privately, she worried about Estella's strong aversion to Sonya.

Lucian, seemingly understanding her apprehension, softened his voice. "I'll reason with my mother. I'm sorry you have to endure her."

Roxanne was subtly stunned. A flicker of elation crossed her eyes. She hadn't expected him to side with her against Sonya; she felt a shared responsibility in improving their relationship. Overwhelmed, she took a moment to compose herself. Looking up at him, she whispered, "Thank you."

Lucian gazed at her intently. "I should thank you for your persistence despite my mother's attitude." His gaze darkened, tinged with guilt. "If she realizes her mistakes…"

Roxanne chuckled. "As long as Mrs. Farwell overcomes her prejudice toward the boys and me, I'll gladly be a family with her." Her sincerity was evident in her voice.

Locking eyes with her, Lucian leaned in. Roxanne was startled by his approach. Before she could react, he kissed her, his hands on her waist, holding her close. The kiss was brief, and he quickly released her.