Chapter 298: Let Me Send You Home

At eight that night, Roxanne and the research institute staff went to The Waterfront.

After settling into their private room, they toasted Roxanne.

"Dr. Jarvis is invaluable to our institute," one person said. "She solved a major medical problem and initiated numerous projects. We owe our success to her!"

Another added, "I couldn't agree more. I honestly thought this project was doomed, but her skill and courage saw us through. She's both charming and incredibly capable!" Roxanne smiled broadly, rose, and addressed them.

"Thank you," she said. "I was simply doing my job. Thank you for your belief in me and for our teamwork."

When she first returned to the country, she'd been apprehensive about the local research community, expecting the worst. She was pleasantly surprised by the researchers' friendliness and the smooth progress of her work.

"Your reputation precedes you, Dr. Jarvis," a teammate remarked. "Dr. Galloway spoke highly of you, and he was right. Meeting you has confirmed everything he said."

Colby's expression shifted, but he quickly recovered, feigning nonchalance as he raised his glass. "I merely stated the truth," he said, draining his drink.

Roxanne sensed Colby's unease, but unable to pinpoint the cause, and with everyone toasting, she dismissed it. Colby, meanwhile, kept glancing at her. Seeing she seemed unconcerned, he breathed a sigh of relief.

He harbored feelings for Roxanne, knowing she was far beyond his reach. He intended to conceal his affections until he felt worthy of her.

Their gathering concluded near ten o'clock. Everyone was in high spirits, having enjoyed the food and Roxanne's company. Roxanne, however, felt tipsy from the many toasts.

The alcohol made her unsteady as she left the private room.

"Let me see you home," Colby offered worriedly.

A headache caused her to frown. "I'm fine," she said. "You don't need to. Everyone should go home. It's late. Goodnight!"

She turned and walked toward the entrance without waiting for a reply. Outside, she found it was raining heavily, with many hotel guests stranded at the entrance.

Lacking an umbrella and unable to drive, she joined the others, waiting for a driver. However, many were also seeking transportation, prolonging her wait.

As she considered calling Madilyn for a ride, a familiar voice sounded nearby.

"Mr. Farwell, it's raining. I have an umbrella; I'll wait for you at the entrance," Cayden said into his phone, holding a black umbrella nearby.

Looking up, he saw Roxanne. "Ms. Jarvis!" he greeted.

A pause followed on the other end of his call. Roxanne's face fell; she knew Lucian had heard.

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