THE ABANDONED WIFE

Chapter 118 Not Her Child

Roxanne found his words humorous. She could still clearly remember how the man had sworn that he would not marry anyone else but Aubree six years ago. He had even treated her coldly because she had taken Aubree's place.

"I find it hard to believe you, Lucian," Roxanne said, her voice tinged with bitterness. "You may claim that you're not involved with Aubree's actions, but your past actions and words tell a different story. How can I trust you now?"

Lucian's face hardened. "People change, Roxanne. I've realized my mistakes, and I'm trying to make amends. But you have to give me a chance to prove it."

Roxanne shook her head, her expression resolute. "I can't afford to let you or Aubree hurt my boys again. They're my priority, and I won't risk their well-being on empty promises."

A flicker of pain crossed Lucian's eyes, but he quickly masked it with determination. "I understand your reluctance, but I'm not asking you to trust me blindly. Let my actions speak for themselves. I'll make sure Aubree stays away from Archie and Benny, and I'll ensure they can continue their education without any interference."

Roxanne hesitated, torn between her desire to protect her children and the faint hope that Lucian might genuinely want to make things right. "I'll hold you to your word, Lucian. But if anything happens to my boys again, I won't hesitate to take legal action against you and Aubree."

Lucian nodded solemnly. "You have my word, Roxanne. I won't let you down."

With that, Roxanne turned and walked away, leaving Lucian standing alone, contemplating how to regain her trust and protect the children from any further harm caused by Aubree.

As she reached her car, Roxanne took a deep breath, trying to steady her emotions. She couldn't afford to let her guard down, not when it came to her sons. They had already been through enough.

The drive home was silent, the weight of the conversation with Lucian pressing heavily on her mind. She needed to stay strong for Archie and Benny, and she couldn't let her feelings for Lucian cloud her judgment.

When she arrived home, the boys were waiting for her, their worried expressions melting away as soon as they saw her. "Mommy, are you okay?" Benny asked, his eyes full of concern.

Roxanne smiled and pulled them both into a tight hug. "I'm fine, my loves. Everything's going to be alright."

That night, as she tucked them into bed, she couldn't help but think about Lucian's words. Part of her wanted to believe that he had changed, that he genuinely cared about her and the boys. But the scars of the past were not so easily forgotten.

She sat by their bedside, watching them sleep peacefully, and whispered a silent vow. "I'll protect you both, no matter what. No one will ever hurt you again."Please check at N/ôvel(D)rama.Org.

The following days passed in a blur of routine and work. Roxanne focused on her job at the research institute, using it as a distraction from her worries. She also kept a close eye on Archie and Benny, making sure they were adjusting well back at the kindergarten.

True to his word, Lucian had spoken to the head of the kindergarten, and the boys were welcomed back without any issues. Roxanne was relieved but still wary, knowing that Aubree could pose a threat at any moment.

One afternoon, as she was working on a project at the institute, she received a call from Lucian. Hesitating for a moment, she finally picked up.

"Roxanne," Lucian's voice came through the line, "I wanted to let you know that I've taken measures to ensure Aubree stays away from the boys. I've made it clear that any interference from her will have serious consequences."

Roxanne felt a mixture of relief and skepticism. "I appreciate that, Lucian. But I hope you understand that it'll take more than words to earn my trust back."

"I do understand," Lucian replied earnestly. "I'm willing to do whatever it takes. Just know that I care about Archie and Benny, and I want to be a positive presence in their lives."

Roxanne sighed, conflicted by her emotions. "We'll see, Lucian. For now, let's focus on keeping the boys safe and happy."

"Agreed," Lucian said. "Thank you for giving me a chance, Roxanne."

As she hung up the phone, Roxanne couldn't shake off the feeling of uncertainty. She wanted to believe that Lucian had changed, but only time would tell if his actions matched his words.

In the meantime, she resolved to stay vigilant and protect her children at all costs. They were her world, and nothing was more important than their safety and happiness.

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