"An increment of two percent?"

Colby stiffened. "Ms. Pearson, haven't we already reached an agreement? We're about to sign the contract, so why are you suddenly increasing the price?"

Aubree folded her legs. "Indeed, we agreed, but almost everything in the crude drug market has risen in price this year. If we signed at the previously agreed price, we'd suffer a significant loss. Dr. Galloway, please forgive us."

Her explanation seemed rational.

Colby's expression tightened. Just as he frowned and was about to speak, Roxanne interrupted.

"Ms. Pearson, you must have raised the price after seeing me. I know the crude drug market well. We can negotiate a price increase, but a two-percent increase now is unreasonable."

Roxanne aimed for professionalism, but Aubree clearly didn't reciprocate. Roxanne saw no need to tolerate Aubree's behavior.

Aubree frowned. "Regardless of the reason, that's our current price. If you don't find it suitable, we'll end this deal."

Roxanne agreed. "Then let's consider this time wasted. A company that doesn't keep its word isn't one we want to work with."

Roxanne stood and said to Colby, "Let's go."

Colby nodded, and they left the café.

"Is there something between you and Aubree?" Colby asked once they were outside. He sensed Aubree's hostility toward Roxanne.

Roxanne didn't want to dwell on it. "In a way," she replied.

Colby didn't press further. "If we're not working with Pearson Group, we'll need a new crude drug supplier," he said, changing the subject.

Roxanne nodded. "Then we'll find one. Horington is a large place; there are surely other suppliers."

"Okay," Colby replied. He preferred the hassle of finding a new supplier to seeing Roxanne targeted.

Back in the café, a cold look settled on Aubree's face. She instructed Charles, "Tell all the crude drug suppliers in Horington that if they work with VR Research Institute, they'll be enemies of Pearson Group!"

Charles, unsure of what transpired between his employer and the doctor, sensed Aubree's anger. He shuddered at her tone. "Of course. I'll do it immediately," he replied, leaving the café.

Aubree was alone. Thinking about Lucian's earlier attitude and Roxanne's demeanor, she panicked. Whether or not Lucian rejected her because of Roxanne, their past marriage was a fact. Aubree couldn't be sure of Lucian's feelings for Roxanne. Further delays were unacceptable.

I can't wait any longer.

Meanwhile, at Farwell Group…

"Mr. Farwell, I've found information about the man Ms. Jarvis was with last night." Cayden approached Lucian.

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