Chapter 1856: Signing the Agreements

The research institute's executives unanimously agreed to enter the cosmeceutical industry. This venture would improve their livelihoods and fund more expensive experiments. Roxanne, with her excellent memory, recounted the details; the group, fully convinced, added nothing. However, she called Lucian to confirm feasibility.

“Go for it,” he said. “Elektra’s investing, and most of the shares are yours. Give it a shot.”

Lucian’s affirmation reassured Roxanne. That afternoon, she contacted Elektra to confirm her agreement and inquire about capital. Elektra secured thirty million for the first phase, seventy million for the second, and additional funding as needed for the third—all available that day. Impressed by her partner's efficiency, Roxanne immediately instructed Linda to expedite company registration.

That evening, Roxanne brought core personnel, including Peregrine and his team, to a hotel to meet Elektra and her family’s investors to sign the agreements. The partnership began simply. After the formalities, a celebratory dinner commenced. However, it became clear the two groups were from different social circles; Roxanne's researchers had little in common with the investors. Roxanne arranged for her team's departure after dinner. The investors, unoffended, conversed amongst themselves before leaving.

Only Roxanne and Elektra remained. Raising her glass, Roxanne said happily, “Here's to a successful partnership, Ms. Lane.”

“You don't have to be so formal, Roxanne,” Elektra replied. “Just call me Elektra, like Lucian does. From today on, we're partners.” Elektra admired Roxanne’s decisiveness in securing such a large investment so quickly. "This whole thing was your idea," she admitted. "From here on out, things will be tougher on your end. We will spend almost the entire thirty million from the first phase. The capital for the second phase—to build the factory—needs to be readily available."

Roxanne outlined her needs, to which Elektra readily agreed. After more wine, Roxanne received a distressed call from Madilyn. Bidding Elektra farewell, Roxanne rushed to the hospital.

Upon arriving, she went straight to the director’s office. Madilyn sat sadly, her eyes red. “What happened?” Roxanne asked, her heart aching at her friend’s distress. She hugged Madilyn, who sobbed, “My mom might not make it, Roxanne.”

Roxanne froze, then asked, “What happened? Tell me everything. Don't be sad. She could still make it.”

Seeing Roxanne’s panic, Madilyn, a doctor herself, said dejectedly, “I'm a doctor too, Roxanne. I can tell she might not survive her heart attack.”