Chapter 1538: Do Not Take It To Heart

Lucian raised an eyebrow. He sensed Roxanne was concealing something from him. "Why would he refuse to discuss the work? Shouldn't finalizing a profitable contract be a priority?" he asked calmly, attempting to maintain a natural flow to the conversation.

Roxanne lowered her gaze. "He'd been drinking and felt unfit to discuss business," she replied.

Lucian narrowed his eyes. "Many deals are finalized over drinks. Jack's the Damaris heir; he must have closed countless deals that way. He must have another reason for refusing."

Roxanne's eyes widened, recalling the earlier events. She couldn't bring herself to reveal that their negotiation failed because she'd rejected Jack's confession. While she harbored no feelings for Jack, she considered a confession private and didn't wish to disclose it to Lucian.

"Perhaps he didn't want to discuss business while celebrating," she said cautiously. "I'll see him again tomorrow at the Damaris Group. Would you have time to come with me?" She wasn't sure how she'd face Jack after what happened. Besides, she needed Lucian's help reviewing the contract details.

Lucian readily agreed. Though displeased by her concealment, he was willing to overlook it, given her request. Their conversation shifted to the contract they would sign with Jack the following day.

Elias and Sonya were still out. The three children were gathered around Catalina, regaling her with kindergarten stories. Catalina laughed at their humorous and adorable accounts. The children turned at the sound of Lucian and Roxanne entering.

"Mommy! Daddy!"

Roxanne smiled, bending to hug them. "Have you all been good today?"

The children nodded enthusiastically. "Yes!"

"They've been exceptionally well-behaved," Catalina added, smiling. "They even helped with chores!"

Roxanne wondered if she'd been overly anxious since their arrival a week earlier.

"Let's have dinner," Lucian said.

"Shouldn't we wait for your parents?" Roxanne asked, confused.

Lucian showed her his phone. "Dad texted; he and Mom are dining out."

Roxanne breathed a sigh of relief at Elias's text. She sensed he was trying to help, understanding the tension dinner with Sonya would create. His absence allowed them to dine peacefully. Roxanne felt grateful for his consideration.

Lucian wrapped an arm around her. "They'll move out in a few days. Don't take anything my mother says to heart. Just let me know if she causes trouble, and I'll speak to her."

Roxanne smiled faintly. "I know. But you'll have a lot to deal with."

Lucian said solemnly, "My past behavior created this tension. I caused my mother's misunderstanding; I should fix it."