Chapter 297: One Good Thing After Another

Unbeknownst to Roxanne, Aubree was plotting against her. Roxanne, however, was preoccupied with her research.

Her busyness wasn't solely responsible for sending Estella home. Had her children not insisted she take a day off for her injured wrist, she wouldn't have interrupted her work.

Early the next morning, a teammate's call roused Roxanne. After a brief conversation, she rushed to the research institute without breakfast.

The beginning and end of research projects were always the most challenging. At the start, Roxanne had dedicated so much time that she'd spend days at the facility. Now, nearing the end, the intensity had returned.

Colby, still assisting Roxanne, was alarmed by her wrist injury during an experiment. "Dr. Jarvis Your hand"

So engrossed in her work, Roxanne had forgotten her injury. Only when she followed Colby's gaze did she remember, smiling faintly. "It's no big deal. Just a scratch from my kids' kindergarten."

Relieved, Colby nonetheless took over the most physically demanding aspects of the experiment, while Roxanne provided verbal instructions.

Their teamwork was excellent, and they continued experimenting for almost a week, finally achieving their desired results. The lab erupted in celebration, and Roxanne was immensely pleased.

Although she'd been a practitioner abroad, most of her projects had been under her professor's supervision. She'd been nominally independent, but this time was different. This was her first independently directed research project.

"Are you free tonight, Dr. Jarvis?" Colby asked, smiling as he approached her.

Roxanne's hesitation and wariness elicited a laugh. "What's with that look? You forgot you promised to treat us to a celebratory meal if the experiment went well. Everyone's waiting!" he teased.

Roxanne smiled. "Ah, right. Sorry. I forgot. Tell everyone to meet at The Waterfront at eight."

Colby nodded and returned to the lab. Soon, cheers erupted from within. Their joy was palpable.

They had much to celebrate: a major breakthrough on a formidable project, and Roxanne's promise of a celebratory meal.

Back in her office, Roxanne booked a private dining room at The Waterfront, then called Madilyn to ask for help with Archie and Benny that night. She had promised to pick them up after the project. They were elated and even mentioned Estella.

The mention of Estella triggered a pang of guilt. She knew her sons would have told Estella she was returning, and she felt terrible about not going home.

"Maddy, please apologize to Estella if you see her. Tell her I'm still working," Roxanne added.

Madilyn, unaware of the reason, simply agreed.

Next Chapter

(Note: The promotional text at the end was removed as it was not part of the story itself.)