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Novel Catalog
Chapter 98
The living room was immersed in a deep silence, save for the occasional sound of Estella’s soft breathing. Lucian’s gaze shifted from his work to the couch where Roxanne sat, asleep with Estella still nestled in her arms. Her posture was uncomfortable, and every time she shifted, her arms instinctively tightened around the little girl. It was clear she wasn’t resting peacefully, but Lucian couldn’t help but feel his heart tighten at the sight.
Just then, Catalina appeared once more, quietly entering the living room to check on Estella. Lucian gestured subtly for her to be quiet, and she nodded, tiptoeing over to the couch. She took in the scene before her, a soft smile curling at the corners of her lips as she watched the mother and daughter sleep soundly together.
The bond between them… Catalina thought, her heart softening. It’s as strong as ever. They haven’t seen each other for years, but Ms. Estella is still instinctively attached to her mother. And Ms. Jarvis… she adores Estella.
Catalina frowned when she noticed the small blanket barely covering their bodies, and without a word, she slipped away to fetch a larger one. A few moments later, she returned, holding the blanket and offering it to Lucian.
Lucian hesitated for a moment before accepting the blanket. His fingers brushed against Catalina’s as he took it, and he immediately bent down to cover them with it, ensuring they were both warm and comfortable. He tucked Roxanne in carefully, his movements slow and deliberate, as though trying not to disturb the fragile peace.
Just as he was about to stand and leave, his gaze lingered on Roxanne’s sleeping face. He froze, unable to look away.
This was the first time he had seen her so close, so vulnerable. Her lashes fluttered occasionally, as though she might wake at any moment. Lucian couldn’t help but wonder when she would stir.
Suddenly, Roxanne’s expression tightened in her sleep. Her head slipped off the armrest, and she began to tilt dangerously to the side.
Before he could even think, Lucian instinctively reached out to catch her. In one fluid motion, he guided her head back, letting it rest gently against his palm. She fell into his embrace without waking, and he paused, his breath caught in his chest.
He could feel the warmth of her soft cheek against his hand, and a wave of unexpected tenderness washed over him. His heart raced in his chest, and his gaze grew dark as he tried to still his emotions, unwilling to disturb her slumber.
Meanwhile, Estella remained fast asleep in Roxanne’s arms, oblivious to the silent exchange between the two adults. Catalina, watching the scene unfold, had an idea. It’s been six years since Ms. Jarvis left… but maybe it’s not impossible for her to come back…
A smile tugged at her lips as she looked at the two of them. “Mr. Farwell,” she said softly, “You should bring them upstairs to get some rest. If Ms. Jarvis stays here tonight, she’ll wake up aching tomorrow. And she still has work to do, right?”
Lucian’s brows furrowed at her suggestion, his mind working through the options. After a long pause, he gave a short nod, acknowledging her advice.
Catalina gently lifted Estella from Roxanne’s arms, the little girl still asleep without so much as a stir. She smiled up at Lucian and said, “I’ll take care of her. You’ll need to bring Ms. Jarvis upstairs.”
Lucian stood still for a moment, uncertain, before he made up his mind. He leaned down and carefully lifted Roxanne into his arms. Her head drooped weakly, but she didn’t wake. She rested against his shoulder, her soft breathing steady, oblivious to the motion around her.
He stood for a moment, his arms holding her delicately as though she might break. A frown tugged at his features as he looked down at her. She’s as light as a feather. Has she really not been taking care of herself over the years?
Catalina watched the scene with a gratified smile. No matter what, Mr. Farwell and Ms. Jarvis are the perfect couple.
Lucian’s gaze lingered on Roxanne’s peaceful face as he began to ascend the stairs, his steps measured and careful. The weight of the situation was heavy on him, but for now, all he could do was hold her and carry her to a place where she could rest.
