Chapter 1616: Speak To Her

Leaving the Damaris residence, Jack returned to Damaris Group. During the drive, he replayed the press conference livestream. The affectionate display between Roxanne and Lucian filled him with frustration.

Arriving at Damaris Group, he immediately noticed his staff's curious stares. News of Roxanne's partnership with Farwell Group had evidently become public. "What are you looking at? Go back to your desks!" he barked. His staff quickly returned to their work.

Storming into his office, Jack slammed the door. Kevin cautiously entered. "Mr. Damaris," he began, "regarding the medicinal herbs reserved for the research institute, should we proceed as planned?"

Jack had previously ordered the herbs to be set aside, certain Roxanne would reconsider and collaborate. He hadn't anticipated her partnership with Farwell and Queen Group. After a moment's consideration, he replied coldly, "Leave them as they are. Call Ms. Jarvis and arrange a meeting. I want to speak to her."

Even if Roxanne had secured agreements with the other companies, Jack doubted they could deliver herbs to the institute so quickly. He still had a chance, provided he could speak with her before she received them.

Kevin followed instructions promptly. Roxanne answered immediately. "Ms. Jarvis, this is Mr. Damaris' assistant. Mr. Damaris wishes to speak with you, if you have time."

The press conference had just concluded; Roxanne was en route home with Lucian. Kevin's call prompted her to glance at Lucian, who nodded in response.

With a slight purse of her lips, Roxanne replied flatly, "Please tell Mr. Damaris my decision is final. There's nothing to discuss. I've found new partners. Compensation is the only remaining issue, and that should be addressed through my lawyers." She ended the call.

Lucian smiled and took her hand, pleased with Roxanne's decisive response. Meanwhile, Kevin's grim expression relayed the news to Jack, causing his demeanor to shift dramatically.

"What did she say? When is she available?" he demanded.

Kevin's voice trembled. "Ms. Jarvis said the only remaining issue is compensation. S-She wants us to contact her lawyer."

Jack's eyes narrowed. "Repeat that."

Sensing Jack's anger, a panicked Kevin repeated the message.

"That ungrateful—" Jack spat. Already angered by Hector's reprimand and the near loss of the Damaris family's controlling stake, Roxanne's rejection pushed him over the edge.

Kevin remained silent; he'd never witnessed such fury in Jack's long career. A heavy silence settled over the office. After a protracted silence, Jack waved Kevin away. "You're dismissed!"

Relieved, Kevin quickly left. Alone, a malevolent glint in his eyes, Jack retrieved an aroma lamp from his desk drawer. "Roxanne, I've given you ample opportunity, but you've rejected them all. Don't blame me for my ruthless methods!"