At the mention of Estella's condition, Roxanne's heart clenched. However, she couldn't show it in front of Lucian.

Just as she was determined to feign indifference, Jonathan abruptly turned the subject to her. "I remember Essie liking you back when you came to visit my grandfather, Dr. Jarvis. I wonder if her condition would improve if she spent more time with you."

He nonchalantly added, "It was the first time I'd ever seen her show such affection for someone else; I was shocked." Roxanne's hand tightened around her fork. She didn't know how to tell him that she was the reason for Estella's worsened condition. Lucian, sitting beside her, agreed with Jonathan and stared at her with a knowing look.

In the past, she had relented as long as Estella's condition was brought up. But this time, it was painfully clear that she had hardened her heart.

Silence reigned at the dining table, and Roxanne distinctly felt the women's gazes upon her. It felt as though they were forcing her to respond. She had no idea how the meal had deteriorated so quickly.

After a long while, she composed herself, met Jonathan's eyes calmly, and said, "I'm also very worried about Essie's condition, but I don't think I have that much influence over her. In terms of keeping her company, I believe Ms. Pearson is far more suited to do so. After all, they're going to be mother and daughter in the future."

Jonathan was stunned. He instinctively wanted to refute her—she was Estella's biological mother, despite Aubree's intention to be her stepmother—but then he realized she knew nothing of this. At that thought, words failed him, and he didn't know how to reply. He glanced at Lucian in embarrassment.

The moment Lucian heard Roxanne's response, his gaze darkened, and his lips curled into a smirk. "Ms. Jarvis is right. Essie has nothing to do with her, so why should she help care for Essie?" Roxanne's expression faltered momentarily, but she didn't contradict him.

Her tacit agreement ignited fury in Lucian's eyes.

Noticing the tense atmosphere, Jonathan felt guilty and regretted bringing up the subject. He had initially thought Roxanne would relent upon hearing about Essie's condition and visit her, since she was Estella's birth mother. He'd forgotten she was unaware of the truth. Furthermore, she was the one who had told Estella she was going abroad; she likely knew she was responsible for Estella's emotional instability. He hadn't expected her to be so cruel to the little girl.

A scrutinizing look entered his gaze as he studied Roxanne. He wondered if she would regret her words if she learned the truth.

Despite his thoughts, he attempted damage control. He cleared his throat casually. "It was just an offhand suggestion. I forgot you're still dealing with the research institute; you probably don't have the time, Dr. Jarvis."

Roxanne remained silent.

Chuckling nervously, Jonathan raised his glass. "Let's not talk about this anymore. Here's to a smooth collaboration with the medicinal herb suppliers, Dr. Jarvis! I'll contact you after they confirm the time."

Roxanne forced a smile. "Thank you for acting as the middleman, Mr. Queen."

(The final paragraph about FindNovel.net is unrelated to the story and has been omitted.)