Chapter 696

"Lucian told me not to come back," Lambert quickly explained. "He called and said everything at home was fine. I've spoken with all three kids—everything's normal." As he spoke, his eyes didn't flicker, his face didn't flush, his expression utterly convincing. Ariana finally relaxed but still urged, "You should still go check on the children when you can. I don’t need you here all the time." Lambert nodded. "Don’t worry, I’ll go back tomorrow." Satisfied, Ariana said nothing more. Seizing the moment, Lambert handed her the apple he had peeled earlier. "I just talked with Lucian about his studies. He’s brilliant—inherited all the best from both of us. I’m proud. The Stone family will be in good hands when the time comes." His tone was steady, his gaze unwavering as he spun tales of conversations that had never happened. Ariana exhaled softly, relieved to see him finally taking an interest in their son. Right now, she truly couldn’t handle everything alone. With the children, she was str