Chapter 1566

Roxanne spent some time at the cafe before returning to the research institute. The outcome of her discussion with Jack was unexpected. She'd assumed that as the heir of the Damaris family, he would prioritize patient survival over profit, and readily accept a marketing strategy involving reduced margins. To her surprise, he was deeply dissatisfied with her offer and refused any negotiation.

"Dr. Jarvis, when will the Damaris Group resume supplying medicinal herbs?" Linda asked, approaching Roxanne upon her arrival.

Roxanne forced a smile. "I'm not making headway," she admitted. "Delay registration as long as possible. If the factory is impatient, offer them more money."

Linda, a long-time employee, recognized Roxanne's distress. "I understand. I'll handle it. However, our development team is growing restless."

Roxanne frowned anxiously. Most researchers hoped the medicine's success would improve their livelihoods. The drug's development was complete, yet its marketing was stalled.

Doubt gnawed at her. Was Jack right? Was she too naive? Not everyone, she realized, prioritized patient survival as she did.

After considerable thought, Roxanne decided to remain steadfast. "Pay their bonuses in advance, using my name," she instructed Linda quietly.

Linda recalled something. "Mr. Damaris also pledged employee incentives. When he deposits the funds—"

"Refund them," Roxanne interrupted. This was crucial. She couldn't risk Jack interacting with her employees. If he knew they lacked a backup herb supplier, he might refuse even a thirty-five percent share.

Linda agreed and left to carry out Roxanne's instructions. Alone in her office, Roxanne replayed her conversation with Jack. She imagined Lucian handling the negotiation; she believed he could have persuaded Jack to accept the low price.

She picked up and put down her phone, hesitating to seek Lucian's guidance. Ultimately, she decided against it. She had engaged Jack alone to assess her own progress under Lucian's tutelage, believing he had faith in her capabilities.

Only half a day had passed since the failed meeting. She decided to give herself more time. She picked up the office phone and contacted previous herb suppliers whose quality she deemed acceptable.

Unfortunately, they balked at her stringent requirements, even questioning the existence of the high-quality herbs she sought.