Chapter 1425
Roxanne's ears flushed at the mention of "responsibility." She glanced guiltily at the children, who, in perfect unison, pretended not to hear, happily enjoying their meal.
Roxanne sighed with relief, then glared at Lucian, embarrassed. "I need more time to think about it!"
Lucian shrugged, flashing her a smile. "Then I'll just have to pursue you more persistently."
The children rejoiced inwardly. I wonder if Mommy has realized that her attitude toward Daddy has completely changed, one thought. With their rapid progress, we'll become a real family very soon!
After dinner, Lucian departed. The smile on his face vanished the moment he left Roxanne's home, replaced by annoyance.
Earlier, during dinner, Roxanne had briefly mentioned the collaboration between her research institute and the Damaris family. She'd been all smiles, but Lucian felt a bitter pang. Jack is obviously coveting my woman, he thought. But, as the elders say, we're not in the same industry. Even if I wanted to do something, I don't know how.
His frustration mounting, he pulled over, took out his phone, and called Jonathan.
Jonathan, roused from sleep by the ringing phone, saw Lucian's name on the caller ID. He involuntarily recalled their last late-night call—Lucian's request to dismantle the Pearson Group, a call that had cost him a good night's sleep. I wonder what it is this time, he mused.
Reluctant but fearing Lucian's arrival at his doorstep, Jonathan answered.
"Lucian, what's up?"
Jonathan heard Lucian's deep voice, punctuated by car horns. "I want to acquire the Damaris family's medicine company. Do you know how I can do that?"
Jonathan froze, instantly alert. "Is Farwell Group preparing to enter the medical industry?" The thought struck him: If Farwell Group enters the medical industry, won't Queen Group's status fall again?
Then, the crux of Lucian's words hit him: he wanted to take over the Damaris family's medical company! Sitting bolt upright, his mind raced.
"Don't tell me you're doing this because of Roxanne. You're jealous of Jack, and in a fit of pique, you want to—"
Lucian cut him off impatiently. "Well? Do you have any ideas? Farwell Group lacks experience in the medical industry, but the Damaris family is highly established. I can only ask for your advice."
Lucian continued his unspoken thoughts: According to Roxanne, the Damaris family supplies the herbs needed for the new drug. If I acquire their company, Roxanne will interact less with Jack. I can provide her with herbs whenever she needs them, leading to more interaction between us.
Jonathan, understanding Lucian even without a direct answer, knew his guess was correct. He wanted to help, but felt helpless.
"It's as you said. The Damaris family's influence is immense. I've tried to acquire their company, but they refused, even after I raised the price fivefold and attempted to befriend them."