Chapter 1271

Since Colby's arrest, the research institute would be leaderless if Roxanne left. Therefore, she decided to remain temporarily and find a trustworthy replacement. She briefed Lucian on the project's revised arrangements and temporarily assigned him Colby's responsibilities. Worried, Lucian remained at her side.

By the time Roxanne finished, evening had arrived, and everyone was leaving. She and Lucian departed together. As they reached the institute's entrance, a Rolls-Royce screeched to a halt before them. Roxanne found the car vaguely familiar but couldn't immediately place it.

Before she could identify it, the driver's door opened, and Jack emerged, concern etched on his face.

"Mr. Damaris?"

Roxanne felt a rush of emotions. Before Colby's arrest, she had distrusted Jack and hadn't contacted him. His appearance surprised and slightly embarrassed her. Lucian curtly acknowledged Jack's presence. In contrast, Jack grinned amiably. "Thank you for your intervention, Mr. Farwell! You cleared my name."

Lucian's expression darkened. Roxanne was puzzled. "You knew?" she asked. Colby had only been arrested that morning.

Jack chuckled. "Your institute is well-known in Horington, and it collaborates with Damaris Group. News of the arrest spread rapidly." He then gave Lucian a knowing look. "Someone played a pivotal role in that, of course."

Roxanne glanced at Lucian, surprise evident in her eyes. She hadn't realized he had spread the news.

"I'm curious," Jack said sincerely, "how did you manage to apprehend him, Mr. Farwell?"

Since Roxanne's poisoning, Jack had suspected Colby, but lacked evidence. He'd wanted to enlist Roxanne's help, but Lucian's distrust had prevented it. He'd investigated independently, finding nothing.

Lucian remained silent. Roxanne sensed the tension and recounted the morning's events.

Jack raised an eyebrow. "Ingenious, Mr. Farwell. Efficient, too. Impressive!" However, his eyes lacked genuine admiration.

Roxanne saw the implication and glared at Lucian. When he remained silent, she apologized to Jack. "I apologize for our previous misunderstanding, Mr. Damaris."

Jack gave Lucian an enigmatic look before addressing Roxanne. "It's understandable you suspected me. Dr. Galloway and I were the only ones near you. But I was very worried about you after you stopped contacting me, Ms. Jarvis."