Chapter 1536: Detached

Roxanne furrowed her brows. In the past, their interactions had been limited to work and medical matters. This change was unsettling. "In that case, let's review the content first. We can finalize the contract another day," she suggested, maintaining a polite smile.

Jack, clearly intoxicated, frowned and slammed his hand on the table. "Is that all we can talk about?"

Alarm bells rang as Roxanne met his gaze. "We're partners, aren't we? Shouldn't we be discussing work?"

"Are you saying we can only be coworkers, Ms. Jarvis?" Jack retorted, his eyes blazing with anger.

The ambiguity of his question didn't obscure its meaning. Roxanne was perplexed. She'd always treated Jack professionally; why these feelings?

Just as self-doubt crept in, Jack spoke, a hint of bitterness in his voice. "Since our first meeting at the medical consultation, I've admired you. Your medical skills impressed me, and your compassion touched me. I always wondered what it would be like to have a woman like you by my side, to shower you with love."

Roxanne reeled, shocked by his confession and the fondness in his eyes. She couldn't believe his romantic feelings, their sudden emergence, or her obliviousness.

After a furtive glance at the closed door, she addressed the intoxicated man. "You've had too much to drink, Mr. Damaris. I'll pretend I didn't hear that."

"I'm not drunk. I meant every word!" he insisted, his tone affectionate.

He reached for her hand, but she deftly avoided him, raising her coffee cup to her lips. His dismay was evident. "I was attracted to your professionalism and gentleness. We're a perfect match. Aren't I the ideal person to discuss medical matters with?"

Roxanne's hand trembled uncontrollably. His increasingly strange behavior finally made sense.

"I know you have two children, so choosing a partner is more complex," Jack continued earnestly. "But don't worry, I adore them. As long as you're with me, I'll love them as my own—even if they're Lucian's children!"

Roxanne tightened her grip on her cup, glancing at him after his mention of Archie and Benny's parentage. She quickly composed herself. He'd likely learned about their parentage from the Farwell Group's public statement.

Setting down her cup, she regarded him calmly. Her voice was cold and detached. "I appreciate your kindness, Mr. Damaris. However, I only see you as a valued colleague and business partner. I can't reciprocate your feelings. If we're to continue our partnership, please don't bring this up again."