Chapter 1655: Suffer Such a Tragedy

Jonathan was speechless, offering Lucian only awkward comfort. "This isn't your fault. The blame rests with Jack. Regardless of your actions, he would have sought an opportunity to strike against Roxanne." A thought struck him. "He must have an ulterior motive."

Lucian, not intending to withhold information, recounted their recent negotiation.

Jonathan's face registered incredulity. "Has he lost his mind?" He was astonished not only by Jack's demand for ten of Farwell Group's most profitable subsidiaries—easily replaceable given Lucian's resources—but also by his audacity to dictate terms regarding Roxanne's research institute collaboration while she remained comatose. And the demand that Lucian marry another woman? What was his motive?

Repulsion filled Lucian's eyes. "I have no issue with the other terms, only the last. I'll never agree to it. I finally won her over, and I'll never let her go. Even in death, she dies with me!"

Jonathan, sensing the terrifying aura, felt an inexplicable jolt. Yet, this was his childhood friend. He shuddered, quickly composing himself. "Jack has gone too far," he agreed. "His greed knows no bounds. He will reap what he sows."

Three days later, with Roxanne still unresponsive and Jack unwavering in his demands, they solemnly reviewed their plan.

Meanwhile, Frieda, fetching water in the kitchen, overheard Lucian's arrival. Past mistakes made her hesitant to face him, so she waited to ascend after he'd gone upstairs. Unexpectedly, her brother joined the conversation downstairs. She listened, breathlessly suppressing her presence.

Their exchange horrified her. While she disliked Roxanne and opposed their relationship, she never imagined such a tragedy. Jack had poisoned her, and even the best doctors were helpless. She felt a surge of relief, glad she hadn't further offended Jack during her alliance with Aubree. Then, worry set in. If Roxanne died, her plans with another man would crumble. She needed to contact him immediately.

Unaware of Frieda's presence, Jonathan and Lucian remained engrossed in Roxanne's plight. At midnight, Jonathan asked, "It's late. Going back to the hospital?"

Lucian nodded slightly. "I worry."

Jonathan didn't press him to stay, seeing him to the door. "I'll visit Roxanne tomorrow. Drive safely." Lucian nodded and left, the Bentley's headlights disappearing into the night.