Chapter 1010

Roxanne was unaware that Jack knew about her past. This explained his raised eyebrows and questioning glance at Cayden after her denial. Cayden, again feeling injustice on Lucian's behalf, couldn't understand Roxanne's ingratitude, especially given Lucian's illness and continued efforts to help her. Her secrecy about their relationship felt like Lucian was an embarrassment, though Cayden couldn't voice these thoughts to Jack.

"These medicinal herbs are difficult to find," he said. "Mr. Farwell has transferred nearly all remaining stock from Herbscape Group."

Roxanne's heart skipped a beat, but she quickly composed herself. "Please convey my thanks to Mr. Farwell," she began, but Lucian's actions were, in her mind, compensation for past use of her; she didn't intend to accept his gift, especially since Jack had already provided sufficient herbs. Before she could finish, Jack interjected, "Since it's a kind gesture, Ms. Jarvis, I suggest you accept them."

With a serious expression, he continued, "Our research will become more complex. More herbs won't hurt. They're free, after all."

Roxanne hesitated. Cayden, unable to bear it any longer, knowing Lucian's illness hadn't stopped him from trying to help her, watched her nearly refuse a kind gift. Just as he was about to speak, Roxanne nodded. "Please thank Mr. Farwell for his kindness," she said, then nodded gratefully at Cayden.

A twinge of something unfamiliar touched Cayden's heart. Was her acceptance driven by need, or by Jack's insistence? Seeing another man convince Roxanne to accept Lucian's gift left him breathless.

Roxanne, however, gave the matter no further thought, checking the herbs and instructing her staff to bring them inside. "If there's nothing else, I must leave. My grandfather awaits my medical consultation report."

After helping with the inventory, Jack departed. Roxanne watched his car go. Then, Cayden's voice startled her. "Ms. Jarvis."

Roxanne turned, confused. Cayden, anxious but careful, asked, "If you don't mind my asking, you and Mr. Damaris..." He didn't need to finish. Roxanne understood.

"We are just friends and colleagues. Please don't misunderstand."

Cayden, naturally, didn't believe her, but outwardly relieved, he spoke favorably of Lucian. "Mr. Farwell instructed the transfer while ill. He personally told me to deliver them upon feeling better."

Roxanne's heart pounded, but she simply nodded. "Please thank Mr. Farwell for me."

Cayden was stunned. Lucian held her in such high regard—was this all he received? A simple thank you? As if reading his mind, Roxanne added, "The research institute owes Mr. Farwell a favor. Let us know when he needs our help; we will do our best."

Even the promise felt conditional. Cayden's heart sank; he felt sorry for Lucian.