Roxanne had expected only to sign a contract; the banquet invitation was a surprise. She considered it disrespectful to arrive for a meeting with a potential business partner in a suit.

She called Madilyn. "What's up, Roxanne? Aren't you in Summerbank for work?" Madilyn asked, already aware Roxanne had entrusted her with Archie and Benny's care the previous day.

"Don't worry," Madilyn reassured her. "I've already taken Archie and Benny to kindergarten."

Roxanne chuckled. "With you, I'm not worried. I need to know if you know any boutiques in Summerbank. I'm attending a banquet this evening."

Madilyn was puzzled. "Aren't you there to sign a contract? How did you get invited to a banquet?"

Roxanne explained, "It's a request from the potential business partner. I couldn't refuse." She added, "Let me know if you know any boutiques. This is my first time in Summerbank."

Madilyn suggested, "The Lane family has a branch here. Try Neon Boutique. I'll call their manager." Having lived in Chanaea for four years, Madilyn knew many people, including some younger Lane family members.

Roxanne hesitated. The Farwell and Lane families were close, and she was avoiding the Farwells, consequently shunning their associates.

Unaware of Roxanne's concerns, Madilyn said, "They usually require reservations. I'll see if I can expedite things," before hanging up.

Roxanne didn't object, assuming a small Lane family boutique would be unlikely to host Farwells. Soon, Madilyn called back, "I've made an appointment. Just mention my name." She hung up immediately.

It was late; Roxanne grabbed a quick lunch before taking a taxi to Neon Boutique. It was already one o'clock. Mentioning Madilyn's name secured her immediate admittance.

Roxanne chose an elegant outfit and waited quietly for the stylist. She thought she heard Lucian's voice, but dismissed it as her imagination.

Meanwhile, Neon Boutique's manager approached Lucian, saying respectfully, "Mr. Farwell, our head stylist awaits upstairs." Lucian nodded curtly. "Thanks."

His business partner had secured two banquet invitations from Ziegler Group, though Lucian hadn't planned to attend and lacked appropriate attire. He'd contacted the Lane family before heading to Neon Boutique.