Chapter 1958: A Frozen Smile
Roxanne's pity for Grant vanished instantly. She forced a bitter smile. "So his divorce from Winnie was just a ploy for sympathy? I wonder what his real motives are."
Lucian nodded. Someone of his stature wouldn't typically concern himself with someone like Grant. However, he worried about Roxanne's distress at having such a father.
"Perhaps he's trying to get close to you now that you possess the wealth he desires," Lucian suggested, eliminating the need for further speculation.
Disappointed, Roxanne resolved never to give her father another chance.
A week later, despite Roxanne's reduced presence at the research institute, new medicines were constantly being produced. The medical company's pricing strategy resulted in monthly losses, but Flora Verba Group, thriving under James's leadership, generated increasing profits, eventually covering the research costs. Company officials repeatedly invited Roxanne to commendation ceremonies and offered honorary titles, all of which she refused. Harvey had taught her not to chase empty fame; he could have amassed a fortune but remained a research professor.
That day, Roxanne, accompanied by Peregrine and several institute leaders, went to a hotel to meet with a medical company from Adrune to discuss patent rights. While suffering local losses, granting the patent to an international company promised greater profit.
"The licensing fees will be calculated annually, approximately one billion for ten years," Linda reported, walking beside Roxanne. "Afterward, they can freely use the technology to produce all six medicines without limit." She led the team confidently, attracting attention.
The negotiation was straightforward. Roxanne firmly held to her price, despite the international company's attempts to haggle, finally asserting herself after years of accepting their terms. They relented, and both parties quickly signed the agreements.
Exiting the hotel, Peregrine lamented, "I remember needing foreign technology to save a patient at a northern research center. They withheld it, and I could only watch my patient die. They only care about profit, with no regard for ethics!"
Roxanne nodded, having heard similar stories from her mentor.
"Roxanne," Peregrine continued, "many people overlook your brilliance. They might consider your non-profit research organization and medical company foolish, but you see the bigger picture—something most can't grasp. I'm fortunate to work with you on such a meaningful endeavor." He was visibly moved. The other researchers echoed his sentiments; they never expected riches working with Roxanne, yet Flora Verba Group had unexpectedly awarded them multi-million dollar bonuses.
"I'm not as far-sighted as you think," Roxanne admitted. "I simply couldn't bear watching people suffer from poverty and illness." That was her original goal; the significant changes along the way were unplanned.
As she reached the hotel entrance, Roxanne saw a familiar yet unfamiliar face. Her smile froze. She had encountered Yuliana, the person she despised most.