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Scene Rewrite
"Mom!" Cherry cried, rushing into Mirabel's arms.
Lucian watched them, a faint smile tugging at his lips. Mirabel turned to the butler and maids, still holding Cherry close.
"Take them to the game center."
The maids carried Cherry out while Charlie hopped off his chair, trailing after the butler. Soon, the room grew quiet.
Lucian's gaze returned to Mirabel. He let his eyes roam from head to toe—her simple sleeveless floral gown clinging delicately, her ponytail revealing the graceful line of her shoulders and neck. She blushed under the weight of his stare.
She sat beside him, fingers twisting nervously. "Lucian, thank you… for taking the kids out these past two weeks. They really love being with you. Well, except Charlie—he still prefers games and staying alone, but… I'm sure he'll warm up to you."
Lucian gave only a small nod, studying her silently. After a pause, his voice dropped.
"Is that all?"
"Huh? Hmm…" Mirabel lowered her eyes, fidgeting with her hands. "I… I want to tell you something."
His brows rose, urging her to continue.
Her chest tightened, breath shallow. You can do this. It's just a confession. Tell him how you feel, then wait for his answer. If he accepts, good. If not… you'll walk away. No trouble.
Mirabel inhaled deeply. "Lucian… I love you. I'm in love with you."
Lucian blinked, stunned. "What?" His mind reeled. Did she just… no. Maybe I misheard. Or maybe… it's real?
Seeing his confusion, Mirabel thought he wanted her to repeat it. She steadied herself and spoke again, heart hammering.
"I'm sorry if this is a shock, but it's true. I'm in love with you. I realized recently it wasn't just my body craving your touch—it's my heart. I've loved you since those days at your place. That's why I kissed you back then… even though I couldn't admit it at the time. My brother's case distracted me, my emotions were all mixed up. But now I know—you're the one I truly love. I regret not accepting you years ago. I know you have a fiancée, and I'm not asking you to break it off. I just wanted you to know how I feel. If you don't love me anymore, I'll accept being only your friend for the children's sa—"
She didn't get to finish.
Lucian leaned in and captured her lips in a fierce, unexpected kiss.
Her eyes widened, breath stolen, until he pulled back just enough to whisper hoarsely, "Don't you ever apologize. I'm the one who confused you back then. It was never your fault."
Her cheeks burned, her hands fidgeting in her lap, but she nodded silently.
His gaze softened, yet regret lingered in his voice. "I made you suffer. And I regret it every day. If I hadn't done what I did… you and I would have been together already—raising our children as one family."
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