Chapter 1169

"That's not possible," Colby stated. "Jack wasn't present when I did it. Moreover, Roxanne is unconscious, so I'm the only one authorized to access the lab's surveillance cameras. No one can review the footage without my permission. Even if Jack suspects my involvement, he can't do anything if I deny it."

With that thought, Colby relaxed. "Weren't you working on the experiment with Dr. Jarvis lately? I wasn't sure about the experiment's details, so I didn't open the bottle immediately—that's why I asked you both to examine it." He was subtly implying he'd avoided the lab countertop to ensure the experiment's success without his interference.

Jack looked at him skeptically. "Dr. Galloway, isn't it a coincidence that something happened precisely when I was absent?"

Colby shrugged. "I'm not sure." He changed the subject. "What's most important is Dr. Jarvis's condition. Where did Mr. Farwell take her? Can we visit her?"

Jack's face darkened at the mention of Lucian. "Why did Lucian find out about Ms. Jarvis's poisoning?"

Colby flinched, then spoke confidently. "Dr. Jarvis has a good relationship with Mr. Farwell, who heads the powerful Farwell Group. Naturally, I contacted Mr. Farwell after the incident, hoping he could provide her with the best medical care."

Jack's expression intensified. "Dr. Galloway, have you forgotten the Damaris family's prominence in the medical industry?"

Colby retorted calmly, "I did, but you weren't going to send her to the hospital, and I couldn't persuade you. So, I had no choice but to contact Mr. Farwell."

Jack glared at him for a moment before saying, "I hope that's truly what happened." He strode toward his car.

"Mr. Damaris," Colby called out, "when will we resume our research?"

Ignoring him, Jack closed his car door and drove away. Jack suspected Colby's involvement in both the poisoning and the fire, but lacked the evidence and time to investigate. Despite Colby's suspicious behavior, he'd correctly prioritized Roxanne's condition. Where had Lucian taken her?

A gleam of delight shone in Colby's eyes as he watched Jack's car depart. For days, he'd been irritated by Jack's presence. He didn't want Jack around. Even though Roxanne had never shown him any attention, he'd been the only one by her side at the institute. He could delude himself into believing he still had a chance with her, but Jack had usurped his position and extinguished his last hope. Now, he'd finally gotten rid of Jack. His efforts hadn't been in vain; he'd successfully pitted Lucian against Jack. He would watch their conflict unfold from the sidelines, appearing by Roxanne's side at the opportune moment. He refused to believe she would still ignore him then.