Chapter 1758: Rejected Gift

In a single day, the Damaris family plummeted from prestigious medical prominence to widespread public disdain. The matter was concluded.

Once they disembarked the ferry, Lucian started the car and turned to his passenger. "Where would you like to go?" He assumed the young woman, after her extended hospital stay, desired some respite.

Roxanne considered a moment before murmuring, "I want to visit Old Mr. Lomax."

Lucian frowned. "Old Mr. Lomax is at a hotel near the hospital; he won't be leaving anytime soon. We can go another day."

Roxanne shook her head. "I woke up thanks to Old Mr. Lomax. Besides, there's nowhere else I want to go right now. Let's see him first."

Seeing her resolve, Lucian agreed and drove to the hotel. During the ride, Roxanne leaned against the window, a weariness etched on her face. First the poisoning, then witnessing Jack's viciousness; the past few days had taken a heavy toll.

Lucian's heart ached at her condition. He slowed the car, remaining silent, allowing her to rest.

Even upon reaching the hotel, Roxanne's mood remained subdued. However, she brightened her expression slightly as they ascended to the upper floor. Lucian, knowing Peregrine preferred tranquility, had booked a secluded room.

The old man stood by the window, gazing at the cityscape. Years spent in a secluded town meant the outside world felt unfamiliar, yet his expression held a pensive quality.

The doorbell's chime drew his attention. He turned and opened the door. A curious expression flickered across his face upon seeing his visitors. "Why are you here? Recovered so quickly you're already walking about?" He studied Roxanne carefully.

Roxanne smiled faintly. "Thank you for your concern, Old Mr. Lomax. I'm fine now. It was entirely because of you that I woke up safely. I wanted to thank you personally."

He nodded, stepping aside to admit them. "Come in, have a seat."

They settled onto the sofa.

As Peregrine rose to offer water, Roxanne stopped him, and he resumed his seat. Lucian produced a card, placing it before Peregrine. "Thanks to your help, Roxanne awoke. I don't know how to adequately express my gratitude, so please accept this as a token of my appreciation. It contains fifty million."

This was the gift Jonathan had promised Peregrine for his recommendation, though Lucian had far exceeded the promised ten million. He believed even the entire Farwell Group would be insufficient recompense for Roxanne's recovery. He anticipated Peregrine's acceptance, but the old man pushed the card back.

Lucian's brow furrowed slightly, sensing dissatisfaction.

"I don't need the money," Peregrine said softly.

Roxanne returned then, bearing glasses of water, witnessing the exchange. The credit card on the table surprised her, leaving her wondering what had transpired in her absence.