Chapter 864: Watched Essie Grow Up

Lucian felt helpless upon hearing James's words. When had he tried to oppose Essie? He'd been focused on winning Roxanne back, yet his efforts had been fruitless. She'd even become close to another man. How could he bear it? Didn't he have the right to be angry?

James stared at him grimly. "From my observations, Ms. Jarvis is a good candidate to be Essie's mother. She cares for Essie well. Her only drawback is having two other children." He sipped his coffee, then probed meaningfully, "Given your personality, the existence of those children wouldn't bother you, would it?"

Lucian pursed his lips. "This isn't something I can decide." He was implying it wasn't his own reluctance, but Roxanne's.

Surprise flickered in James's eyes. He hadn't expected Lucian to face such a situation. A smile played on his lips as he observed Lucian's frustration.

After a moment, he said seriously, "Even so, Ms. Jarvis clearly cares deeply for Essie. Regardless of your relationship, I advise against preventing Essie from seeing her. Spending time with Ms. Jarvis benefits her condition."

Lucian recalled the ignored calls and messages from Roxanne and frowned. "I understand."

James nodded. "To get Essie to sleep, I lied, saying Ms. Jarvis was arriving soon. Waking to find her absent will cause another tantrum and damage her trust in me. If possible, ask Ms. Jarvis to come."

Lucian's expression darkened. He'd just ignored Roxanne; now he had to actively seek her out. She'd likely feel like a mere tool for comforting Estella, discarded when no longer needed.

He replied in a low voice, "I'll take Essie to find her."

James frowned, confused. Wouldn't it be easier for Ms. Jarvis to come? But he didn't press, sensing Lucian's reluctance to explain. "I'll come with you, just in case." He'd preferred Lucian to call Roxanne, as he could soothe Estella if she woke. Now, with Lucian taking Estella, he had to accompany them, given Estella's unstable condition.

Lucian nodded. "Thank you."

James smiled. "Don't be so formal. I watched Essie grow up. Even if you're not worried, I am!"

They entered the room. Estella slept peacefully on the couch, no longer crying. Lucian, observing her tranquil sleep in contrast to her recent distress, felt a pang of heartache.

"Let's go," James said softly.

Lucian, roused from his thoughts, gently lifted Estella. They left the clinic and drove to Roxanne's home.