Chapter 1906: Mid-Twenties

James was enjoying himself with the children when Roxanne and Lucian awoke. Estella was especially close to him, having opened up easily after his gentle patience during her illness. Archie and Benny, endearingly addressing James as "Mr. Lann," were, unbeknownst to them, subjects of his research. Witnessing their accomplishments, James readily acknowledged their genius; far surpassing even Lucian, whose talents he'd underestimated for years. Roxanne's exceptional genes were clearly evident.

Estella then showcased her clothing designs, further stunning James with Snuggly's impressive market share and sales figures.

"Lucian," James exclaimed, "your family members are natural businesspeople! First Roxanne's Flora Verba Group, and now Essie's Snuggly. Are you planning to conquer every industry?"

Lucian steered James towards coffee and casual conversation, subtly leading into a business proposition: James taking over as Flora Verba Group's CEO.

"Much has happened these past months," Lucian remarked. "You're aware, I presume?"

James nodded, confirming his knowledge of Aubree's erratic behavior, Jack's poisoning, and Elektra's recent debacle. His family and Jonathan kept him informed, even from afar. Elektra's self-surrender, however, was the most unexpected event—though less so upon reflection, given her feelings for Lucian.

"Forget the circumlocution," Lucian declared. "Stay. Consider becoming Flora Verba Group's CEO. A temporary arrangement, of course."

Lucian intently observed James' reaction. The offer of such a pivotal position surprised James, a psychologist.

"Lucian," he responded with a smile, "are you pulling me back into the business world? Using Flora Verba Group as a training ground?"

James's assessment of Flora Verba Group's valuation was outdated; he last knew it to be worth over ten billion. Compared to the Lann family's hundreds-of-billions-worth enterprises, it seemed insignificant, a mere training ground.

"Hardly training," Lucian countered with a mischievous grin. "Its market value has soared to sixty billion. And the products? One hit after another."

"Sixty billion? It's only been two months!" James was astounded, lost in thought.

Lucian patiently awaited his response. Roxanne's arrival broke the tension. Sensing their business discussion, she interjected.

"Lucian, I've a concern. My Cerulean Needle Technique is improving, but I lack a suitable successor to whom I can pass on my medical knowledge and ancient texts. What should I do?"

Roxanne instantly regretted her words, deeming their charade absurd. Yet, the outcome proved unexpectedly fortuitous.

James's eyes lit up, his hesitation replaced with resolve.

"Roxanne, you seek a student? To personally train?" he inquired eagerly.

"Yes," Roxanne confirmed. "My mentor advised me to find a qualified individual, someone young, to inherit my skills." She spoke truthfully, her medical training years in the past.

"Roxanne," James hesitantly asked, "would someone in their mid-twenties suffice?"