With a look of surprise, she asked, "How come you're here already? I thought you said you'd be coming in two days' time."
"That was the plan," Lucien explained. "But I could clear my schedule earlier, and the company matters were resolved faster than expected."
"I considered giving you a call to let you know about my early arrival," he continued with a hearty laugh, "but I wanted to surprise you, and, as we can see, it worked." He placed his suitcase to the side, clearly relieved not to have to drag it around all day anymore. He'd lugged it from place to place until he finally got to the car and stowed it in the trunk.
Lucien took a seat at the dining table beside his uncle. The older man had been itching to ask a question that had gnawed at him since Lucien's return.
"You seem somewhat different," his uncle observed, studying Lucien with scrutinizing eyes. "You're not just healthier, you've got new clothes, and there's been a change in your personality somehow."
Lucien's uncle furrowed his brow, visibly perplexed by the transformation that had occurred during the four years they had spent apart.
"Now that you mention it," his aunt moved closer, her gaze sweeping up and down Lucien, "you really seem different, not in a bad way, but it's a bit peculiar. It's like the little Lucien we knew has undergone a transformation." She sighed, a hint of amusement in her laugh. "We now have a more mature version of you, someone who's clearly evolved over the years."
Lucien chuckled softly, acknowledging the truth in her words. "It's been quite a journey," he said, reflecting on the years he'd spent away from his family. "I've had the chance to learn and grow, and it's had its impact."
Fiona's eyes softened with understanding. "Change is a part of life, and it's wonderful to see you thriving," she said, her smile warm and supportive. "But it'll take some getting used to, this 'new' Lucien."
Lucien nodded, appreciating her sentiments. "I hope it's a change for the better," he replied, feeling a sense of comfort in their shared moment of reflection.
His uncle and Lizzie nodded in agreement, acknowledging the changes in Lucien. It was evident that Lucien had transformed during his time away from them, and they seemed to understand the shift in his character.
Lizzie's eyes widened suddenly as if a light bulb had gone off in her head. "Lucien even has a really luxurious car," she exclaimed, her excitement evident. "He drove us here in it, and let me tell you, it was so comfortable. Many of my classmates were talking about it. They said it was a Maybach, I think." She finished her statement with a hint of uncertainty, glancing at Lucien for confirmation.
Lucien smiled at Lizzie, pleased that she'd correctly identified the car. "Yes, it's a Maybach S-Class," he confirmed. He could see the joy in her eyes at getting it right, and he appreciated her enthusiasm.
The aunt and uncle exchanged knowing glances, their expressions shifting from curiosity to understanding. Lucien's changes, both in his personality and circumstances, were becoming clearer to them.
His uncle leaned back in his chair, a satisfied smile on his face. "It's quite the transformation you've undergone, Lucien," he remarked. "We're proud of the person you've become."
His aunt nodded in agreement, her eyes filled with warmth. "Change is a part of life, and it's clear that you've embraced it with open arms. We're happy to see you thriving."
However, her brow furrowed with a hint of curiosity. "But, dear," she added, "we can't help but wonder how you managed to acquire such a luxurious car and those new clothes. It's a significant upgrade, and we're just curious about your success."
Lucien appreciated their support but also grasped their questions. He leaned forward and shared, "I was working part-time jobs and had some savings, so I ventured into a small business. Over time, I expanded it and eventually sold it to acquire a laboratory. With the help of specialists, we conducted research that allowed us to gradually grow the laboratory over the course of four years. While I was mostly focused on my studies at university, the team I hired continued to work and achieved some significant breakthroughs. Thanks to these advancements, I could keep expanding, and now I own two laboratories. We're on the verge of launching a new medication that's currently in the research phase."
His uncle and aunt exchanged wide-eyed glances, stunned by the unexpected turn of events. For a moment, their jaws hung open, rendering them momentarily speechless. They hadn't anticipated such a remarkable story of success, and the transformation in Lucien was now even more astonishing.
After a moment, his aunt finally found her voice. "Lucien," she began, "that's truly remarkable. We had no idea the extent of your achievements during these past years. It's astonishing."
His uncle, still absorbing the information, added, "Indeed, it's a testament to your dedication and hard work. We're proud of you, Lucien."
Lizzie also chimed in, her eyes wide with amazement, mirroring the astonishment of her parents at what her big brother had achieved in the span of just four years, all while still attending university. She couldn't help but feel a deep sense of pride for her brother's accomplishments, and it was evident that this revelation had deepened her admiration for him.
Lucien recalled his mission, particularly the information Lizzie had shared during their drive about her desire to attend an arts university in Starcity. He quickly decided to use this as a segue into the topic he wanted to discuss.
However, before he could bring it up, his aunt interjected, "Let's eat before it gets cold. I hope I made enough for everyone. I didn't expect you to come, so I haven't prepared more than I would usually do."
Lucien nodded, understanding the importance of a warm meal and the desire to continue their conversation over dinner. He decided to wait for the right moment to broach the topic of Lizzie's educational aspirations and his idea to move them to Starcity.
While savoring their meal, their conversation flowed naturally, moving from one topic to another. Lucien took a moment to inquire about his aunt and uncle's health, genuinely concerned for their well-being.
His uncle, taking a sip of water, nodded appreciatively. "We're doing well, Lucien," he said. "No major health issues to worry about, thankfully."
Lucien's aunt chimed in, her eyes filled with warmth. "And how about you, dear? You look healthier than ever. University life treating you well?"
Lucien smiled, feeling the warmth of his family's concern. "It's been quite a journey," he admitted. "But I can't complain. I've learned a lot."
In the midst of their conversation, Lizzie, her face lighting up with excitement, added, "Speaking of learning, I'm so thrilled about my upcoming graduation. Lucien, I'm really happy that you'll be there. Your presence will make the day even more memorable for me."
The atmosphere at the table was filled with a sense of familial closeness, where concern for each other's well-being and the anticipation of shared moments like Lizzie's graduation created a heartwarming connection. They continued to enjoy their meal, sharing stories and laughter as they reconnected after Lucien's long absence.
Lucien seized the opportunity to bring up the topic Lizzie had shared earlier. He leaned in and asked, "You mentioned wanting to attend an arts school in Starcity, right?"
Lizzie's eyes lit up with enthusiasm as she replied, "Yes, it's an incredible university known for producing many renowned designers. I want to learn about architectural design and interior decoration. But, Mom and Dad have explained that they can't afford it, so I'm considering enrolling in a regular university with relevant courses."
A sense of disappointment tinged Lizzie's voice, but she understood her parents' financial limitations. However, she then remembered that Lucien had mentioned owning several companies. Could he be the solution to her dream? With excitement, she turned to her big brother and asked, "Can you help me, big brother?"
Lucien considered her hopeful face and realized the challenge of the situation. "I can help you," he responded, "but you'll need to persuade your Mom and Dad to accept my assistance."
Lucien understood that convincing his uncle to accept financial help from his nephew wouldn't be easy. The older generation often held strong principles, and pride might be a barrier to accepting such aid. Nevertheless, Lucien was willing to support his sister's dreams, provided they could navigate the family dynamics together. He saw this as an opportunity not just to fulfill Lizzie's educational aspirations but also as a way to introduce the idea of them moving to Starcity and living in an apartment he owned.
As they continued the conversation, Lucien was already thinking of how to approach the topic of relocating to Starcity. He believed that with a thoughtful approach, he could present it as a practical and beneficial option for the entire family.
Lizzie looked at her father with earnest eyes and pleaded, "Dad, please. Don't you want your daughter to get the best possible education?"
Her father, a mix of concern and reluctance in his expression, replied, "Of course, Lizzie, we want the best for you. But you know, it's not just about the education; we have financial limitations to consider."
Lizzie's mother, chiming in, added, "Your father and I only want what's best for you, but we need to be practical. We don't want to burden ourselves with debt."
Lizzie, not willing to give up easily, continued, "But you've always encouraged me to follow my dreams, and I've worked hard to get into that arts school. It means the world to me, and I can't let go of that dream just because of money."
Her father sighed, understanding his daughter's determination. "Lizzie, we appreciate your ambition, and we're proud of you. Let's hear what Lucien has to say, and we'll discuss it as a family."
Lizzie's heart swelled with hope, and she smiled at her parents, grateful for their willingness to at least consider her dreams.
Lucien, observing the dynamics of the discussion, decided it was the right time to introduce his idea. He cleared his throat and addressed his family, "Actually, I had a plan. I've been thinking about moving all of you to Starcity. I own an apartment there with a central location, easily accessible to various school districts. I want you to live there for a safer and more convenient life."
Lizzie's eyes lit up with hope, while her parents exchanged surprised glances. Her father, looking curious, asked, "Why do you want us to move there, Lucien?"
Lucien continued, explaining his perspective, "The neighborhood here isn't as safe as it used to be. I've been concerned about your well-being, especially now with Lizzie going to university. In Starcity, you'd have a better living environment."
Lizzie interjected, "Dad, this would also mean I could attend the arts school I've always dreamed of."
Lucien nodded, emphasizing the benefits. "Exactly, it would provide Lizzie with an excellent opportunity to pursue her dreams."
Lizzie's father considered Lucien's proposal, his brow furrowing in thought. After a few moments, he spoke, "It's a generous offer, Lucien, but I'd need some time to think about it."
Taking another deep breath, he continued, sharing his perspective, "I appreciate your concern for our safety, Lucien. However, this house has been in our family for generations, and it holds immense sentimental value. Leaving it, especially for a free apartment, doesn't sit quite right with me."
Lucien nodded, understanding the weight of tradition and family history. "I respect that, Uncle, but the neighborhood has changed a lot over the years. It's not as safe as it once was. I want you all to have a secure place to live in."