Chapter 1165

Back at the research institute, Jack carried Roxanne to her office. The hallway was spacious, but concerned employees might intrude, and he needed a quiet environment to treat her.

Colby returned from sending his message to find Jack and Roxanne gone. "Where's Dr. Jarvis?" he asked a nearby researcher, his expression grim. The researcher, momentarily startled, pointed toward Roxanne's office. "I think I saw Mr. Damaris carrying her inside."

A dark glint crossed Colby's eyes. "Thanks," he murmured, and strode toward the office. He slowed his pace, however, a calculated move. I just took my gaze off them for a second, and Jack used that opportunity. Luckily, I'm confident in my skills. He won't easily succeed in treating Roxanne. If he thinks this is a chance to get closer to her, he's dreaming. He put on a worried expression and knocked.

Jack was examining Roxanne when the knock came. Colby entered, concern etched on his face. "Mr. Damaris, how's Dr. Jarvis? I've already contacted the hospital. We can leave anytime."

Jack glanced at him. "Please open all the windows." Roxanne needed someone with her; he couldn't leave, even though ventilation was necessary. Colby's arrival was timely.

A flicker of anger ignited at the closeness between Jack and Roxanne, and Jack's commanding tone. Colby controlled his temper, confident in his ability to thwart Jack's efforts. Once his anger subsided, he opened the windows and approached them.

"Mr. Damaris, did you bring Dr. Jarvis back here because you found a way to treat her?"

Jack frowned. "Not yet. I can only try."

Colby offered a subtle smile. "Oh, what's wrong with Dr. Jarvis? Do you know what poisoned her? You both worked on the experiment for two days; I thought it should be safe?" His tone suggested complete innocence.

Jack suspected Colby's involvement, but focused on Roxanne's condition. He replied concisely, "Gas poisoning. Her lungs can't expel the gas, and the poison has reached her blood. It needs immediate treatment." Urgently, he added, "Prepare my acupuncture tools. I'm treating her now!"

Colby, outwardly complying, pretended to search for the tools. Jack's confident tone was deceptive; Colby wouldn't allow him to succeed. His plan had been to create distance between them. What if Jack manages to treat Roxanne? Will my plan backfire? He couldn't protest and simply followed Jack's instructions. The best-case scenario is delaying treatment until Lucian arrives, and letting them fight.