Jonathan noticed the way they looked into each other's eyes and wisely said nothing. Only after they retracted their gazes did he smile and say to Roxanne, "The herb suppliers I've contacted only have branch offices in Horington, but they should be able to provide a consistent supply to your research institute. Is that acceptable, Dr. Jarvis?"

Pulling herself from her reverie, Roxanne offered a polite smile. "Since you recommended them, I'm confident in their capabilities. Furthermore, a small institute like ours won't require a large quantity of herbs. The branch offices should suffice."

Raising his eyebrows, Jonathan replied, "It may be small now, but with you involved, who knows what the future holds?"

Roxanne smiled but didn't respond. Instead, she asked, "What's the plan for the business proposal with the herb suppliers?" She wanted to resolve the issue before Sonya could react. Once the supply issue was settled and she left the country, she would have no further involvement with the research institute, preventing Sonya from causing further problems.

Jonathan answered, "Their main offices are in Summerbank. It's best you go there in person at your earliest convenience, Dr. Jarvis."

Roxanne readily agreed. "I can go anytime. Please inform me once they confirm a time."

Jonathan nodded.

Once the business discussion concluded, an awkward silence fell over the private room. Jonathan panicked, observing the two of them. Although Roxanne hadn't dismissed Lucian, they hadn't spoken a word to each other. Finally, Jonathan decided to intervene.

"Lucian, how has Essie been these past two days?" he asked innocently, taking a bite of food.

Both Lucian and Roxanne's expressions changed. Unexpectedly, Jonathan mentioned Estella, causing Lucian to instinctively glance at Roxanne, who was eating. Furrowing his brows, he replied unhappily, "She's fine, but her mood has been unstable. James has been visiting frequently."

Since learning of Roxanne's planned relocation, Estella had been troubled. Despite trying to improve, her mood swings remained evident. This was because of Roxanne, yet Roxanne seemed unconcerned. Lucian's temperature dropped.

Roxanne, hearing Jonathan mention Estella, remained outwardly calm, avoiding inquiry. Lucian's reply only increased her guilt. She knew she'd caused Estella's mood swings but had still spoken harshly to her. Essie must hate me, she thought.

Jonathan spoke again. "What exactly happened? Essie's condition had stabilized; I thought she was improving. Just as we were anticipating good news, her condition worsens again. At this rate, how will she ever fully recover?" He glanced at Roxanne.

The passage has been cleaned up for grammar, punctuation, and style. The unnecessary addition at the end has been removed.