Chapter 1707: Seeking Permission

Back at the hospital, Roxanne was still awake. Lucian quickened his pace upon seeing the lights still on in her ward.

“Why are you still up?” he asked, worried to see her sitting on the bed in a daze.

Roxanne, roused by his voice, smiled. “I slept for four straight days; I can't fall asleep now.” She then inquired, “Where are the kids? Are they asleep?”

“I tucked them into bed before coming here,” Lucian replied.

Reassured, Roxanne soon shifted her concern to him. “You look pale. You should get some rest at home.” His pallor was striking.

Lucian instinctively ran a hand down his face, forcing a smile. “I've gone days without sleep for work before; it's nothing.”

He sat beside her bed, gazing at her tenderly. “Besides, how could I leave you alone at the hospital? The kids wouldn't let me.”

Roxanne looked puzzled. “What does that have to do with the kids?”

Lucian smiled, recounting what the children had told him in the car. Roxanne felt a warm sensation in her heart, realizing their protectiveness. “I was afraid they would be scared. I never thought…” She smiled and glanced at Lucian. “They weren't scared because you were with them, and that's why they were confident.” Perhaps this was the power of paternal love. They grinned at each other.

Roxanne made room for him. “It's late. Come and rest. You have huge dark circles under your eyes!”

“There’s no rush,” Lucian said, remaining seated. “Since you can’t sleep, I want to seek your permission for something.”

Roxanne’s expression grew serious at his darkened countenance. “What is it?”

Lucian’s brows furrowed, considering how to break the news. After a moment, he said, “Jack’s second demand is for your research institute to work with them again. I’ve already drafted the unilateral termination of the contract to get the antidote; I only need to release—”

Roxanne interrupted. “No way.”

Lucian looked at her helplessly. “Don’t worry about the funds. Farwell Group and Queen Group will pay a large termination fee. You can use it to increase employee benefits. It won’t matter if the money comes from the Damaris family.”

Roxanne stated solemnly, “I’m in charge of the research institute. If you want to terminate the contract, I’ll find another business partner. But I will never work with the Damaris family!” Knowing Jack’s character, she refused any further involvement. She wouldn’t let him dictate terms.

Lucian fell silent, hesitant after seeing her resolve. “I know how you feel, but now isn’t the time to burn bridges with Jack.” He knew a collaboration with the Damaris Group would still hold value for Roxanne, offering a potential avenue to secure the antidote if they couldn't develop it themselves.