That night, Roxanne told Lysa she needed to run an errand and asked her to watch Archie and Benny. After returning to her room, she bought plane tickets for herself and Larry, departing early the next morning.

The following morning, Roxanne packed her things and left for the airport. Larry was waiting at her house.

"I thought driving might be inconvenient for you, so I came to pick you up," he said, opening his car door.

Roxanne thanked him and got in. They chatted during the drive. She suddenly remembered something and asked, "Larry, you only stayed briefly in Chanaea before going abroad to work. How long are you staying this time?"

Larry smiled. "I planned to leave, but my elder's surgery delayed my departure."

Roxanne recalled that Larry had mentioned going overseas during their last meeting. He'd said his elder was recovering well after surgery, but he hadn't mentioned leaving. Instead, he'd begun participating in Chanaea's medical conference.

Confused, Roxanne persisted, "When are you planning to leave this time? I'll see you off."

Larry's brows furrowed. "I'm not leaving."

Roxanne was astonished. "Why? You've always loved the academic environment abroad. You're more accustomed to the research there." She knew he'd studied abroad since entering the medical field. Why the change?

Larry's gaze softened. "It's because of you."

Roxanne was taken aback.

"Since returning, I've found Chanaea's environment very encouraging. For example, the specialists here cooperated so well with you during your last surgery. I plan to stay and develop my career further. If I don't fit in, I can always go abroad," he explained gently.

Roxanne sighed with relief. Smiling, she nodded. "With your remarkable skills, many hospitals must be vying for you."

Larry was already globally renowned, despite his youth. Numerous hospitals would surely want him.

He chuckled, nodding. "I've received invitations from several hospitals with very attractive salaries. I'm considering their offers."

"If you're considering Horington, I might have some suggestions," Roxanne offered. "My research institute recently investigated many of the city's top hospitals, for future collaboration."

Larry readily accepted her offer.

They discussed Horington hospitals until they boarded their plane. They landed in Bellridge at noon, immediately transferred to the event organizer's car, and checked into their hotel. The conference began in the afternoon, leaving ample time to rest.

After arriving in Bellridge with Larry, they stayed in Horington. Since they rarely visited Bellridge, Roxanne shopped near the conference venue before lunch. After lunch, they returned to their rooms to prepare for the afternoon conference.