Chapter 1580: Do Not Contact Me

After breakfast, Lucian took the three children to kindergarten while Roxanne went to the research institute. Linda was waiting outside her office. "Dr. Jarvis, any news from Damaris Group?"

Roxanne stopped, startled by the mention of Damaris Group. Composing herself, she replied, "We need more time. What's wrong? Is there a problem at the factory?"

Linda looked distraught. "We used the last of the medicinal herbs yesterday afternoon. The factory's at a standstill. The manager contacted me last night; we discussed unpaid wages for the workers all night." Linda hadn't slept.

Roxanne frowned. The situation had escalated. "All right. How much do they want? Authorize the payment. I'll resolve this as soon as possible." She hurried into her office.

Noticing Jack's name second on her call log, she gritted her teeth, summoned her courage, and returned his call. He hung up immediately.

Moments later, a text arrived: "Ms. Jarvis, don't contact me until the pricing issue is resolved."

Disappointment washed over Roxanne. She set down her phone and opened a supplier directory, searching for uncontacted sources of medicinal herbs.

She felt overwhelmed. Never had she imagined Jack, once such a refined gentleman, would be so driven by profit. Their differing motivations for this medicine meant further cooperation was unlikely. This realization struck her forcefully. She immediately called the suppliers she'd missed yesterday, but found none to her satisfaction.

Then, Linda's voice came from outside: "Dr. Jarvis, the factory is requesting an additional million for stoppage fees…"

The pain in her heart was sharp, but she had to act. She hung up, strode from her office, and said to Linda, "Gather all the research team leaders in the conference room."

Linda summoned the leaders. Ten minutes later, they were assembled.

Roxanne began, her tone both friendly and authoritative. "Our institute faces a difficult situation. Does anyone have suggestions for a new medicinal herb supplier?"

The leaders exchanged glances. One spoke, "Dr. Jarvis, I'm confused. We had a good relationship with Damaris Group. Why did they stop supplying us?"

Another added, "Damaris Group has the best herbs. Is there no way to persuade them?"

Roxanne, facing their skepticism, felt uneasy but decided on honesty. "Our original agreement with Damaris Group fell through. We need a new supplier."

Silence fell. Uncertain glances were exchanged.