Chapter 1608: Sign the Contract

“So, Jonathan, why are you here? Have you found other medicinal herb suppliers we can work with?”

After a brief hesitation, Roxanne adjusted her approach.

Jonathan’s smile widened as he nodded. “Most medicinal herb suppliers readily agreed to collaborate with the research institute, thanks to your hard work in establishing its reputation.”

Roxanne glanced at Lucian before returning her attention to Jonathan. Knowing she’d only been with the institute a short time, she understood the suppliers’ agreement stemmed partly from Jonathan’s request and partly from his mention of Farwell Group. Lucian held her hand and kept his other hand on her back, seemingly anxious about Jonathan’s unawareness of their relationship.

Roxanne subtly ignored Lucian’s display of possessiveness while confirming details with Jonathan. “How did you find these suppliers?” She’d spent days contacting every supplier she knew without success.

With an enigmatic smile, Jonathan replied, “Queen Group is a leading medicinal herb supplier in the country. Naturally, our network is broader than yours. I mostly contacted direct suppliers in the herbs’ countries of origin. For those I couldn't find directly, I contacted distributors.”

Roxanne nodded in understanding.

“But,” Jonathan glanced at Lucian, “you get what you pay for. While the herbs are guaranteed superior quality, they’re considerably more expensive.” He’d only approached these suppliers based on Lucian’s assurance that cost wasn't a concern, knowing Lucian would intervene if Roxanne couldn’t afford them. Lost in the excitement of the good news, she missed Jonathan’s look at Lucian.

“Money isn’t an issue. I was going to buy from Damaris Group at three times the original price, but they refused. I don’t think it can get more expensive than that, right?”

“You were going to purchase from Damaris Group at three times the original price?” Jonathan’s eyes widened in shock. Does the research institute have that much money?

Roxanne smiled sheepishly. “I made that offer confidently expecting good returns on the medicine. I thought increased upfront costs wouldn’t be a problem.”

Jonathan chuckled dryly. “You’re right, Roxanne. The new suppliers will definitely charge less than that.”

Roxanne breathed a sigh of relief. “Anything less than that is acceptable.”

She confirmed details about several key herbs with Jonathan, who patiently explained everything. Feeling reassured, she said, “I have no more questions. Could you check when we can sign the contract? We can’t delay.”

Jonathan nervously looked at Lucian, directing the question to him. Roxanne frowned at their exchange.

A moment later, Lucian stated in a low voice, “Those suppliers requested to sign with Queen Group. They’ll supply Queen Group, who will then supply the research institute. They also requested Farwell Group as guarantor.”