That night, Roxanne and Larry attended a gathering hosted by the conference's organizing committee at the Ocean Restaurant, a high-class establishment near their hotel. The committee had pre-booked a private room for the attendees. A waiter led Roxanne and Larry upstairs to a corner room.

The restaurant's private rooms varied in design. The committee, perhaps assuming the attendees were academics, had chosen a room with classical, scholarly décor. A rosewood table, centered with a vase of flowers and surrounded by rosewood chairs, dominated the room. Paintings adorned the walls, creating a study-like atmosphere.

Several guests were already seated when Roxanne and Larry arrived, regarding the newcomers with awe. Roxanne and Larry were the youngest attendees. Despite her youth, Roxanne's conference presentation had impressed the senior participants.

Roxanne smiled humbly. "Sorry for the long wait. We got lost." After the conference, she and Larry had taken a walk in Bellridge without informing the committee, and finding their way back to the hotel had taken longer than expected.

"It's all right," said Gerald, who sat at the head of the table, rising to wave them over. "Not everyone is here yet. Have a seat!"

Roxanne was surprised. Gerald was internationally renowned, even respected by Harvey. She hadn't expected his high regard, and noticing the envious glances of others, she said, "We'll sit near the doorway. It will be easier for the waiters."

She and Larry seated themselves near the door. Gerald frowned slightly but didn't protest. "That's very thoughtful," he said.

Eventually, everyone arrived. "Ms. Jarvis," one guest exclaimed, "you're such a young woman with outstanding credentials! A real talent!" Others echoed the praise, spurred by Gerald's admiration and their own observations.

Roxanne replied modestly, "The questions Mr. Lynch raised were ones I'd researched previously."

Gerald then proposed, "Do you plan to work for my company, Ms. Jarvis? Just tell me what you want, and I'll comply!"

The crowd was stunned. Larry was incredulous. It had been years since Gerald had taken on a mentee, focusing solely on his research. This proposal was unexpected.

Roxanne, after regaining her composure and noting the encouraging looks around the table, politely declined. "I appreciate your kind offer, Mr. Lynch," she said, "but I'm currently assisting Professor Lambert with projects and wouldn't be able to fully dedicate myself to a mentorship."

The others were shocked by her refusal. Gerald, though slightly disappointed, accepted her decision. "In that case, I won't force you. Just approach me anytime if you change your mind," he said.

Roxanne smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Mr. Lynch." (The final sentence about FindNovel.net is irrelevant and has been omitted.)