Roxanne pursed her lips in annoyance, struggling to free herself from his grip. Her efforts were futile.

Lucian noticed her intention. "Are you really going to hail a taxi, dressed like that? Can't you see the weather?" he said with a solemn expression.

"You don't need to worry about me, Mr. Farwell. I can manage," Roxanne replied coldly.

Lucian realized he'd made his concern too obvious. He furrowed his brows. "I doubt you'll get a taxi now. You'll be late for the banquet." Roxanne glanced at the street. He was right. Neon Boutique was in a secluded area, with minimal traffic. She wouldn't even see a taxi without walking further, and she certainly didn't want Lucian's help.

Turning back to Lucian, she was about to speak when her phone rang. She frowned, raising her gaze to him. Lucian slowly released her wrist.

Roxanne answered Jasper's call. "Dr. Jarvis, where are you? The other partners are here. Even Mr. Lynch has arrived and is eager to see you!" he exclaimed. Roxanne checked the time. The banquet wasn't starting soon, but Mr. Ziegler had said Mr. Lynch was already there. She couldn't keep him waiting.

After hesitating, she forced a smile. "Please tell Mr. Lynch I'll arrive shortly."

Jasper chuckled in acknowledgement and hung up.

Roxanne stared at her darkened phone, troubled. This trip to Summerbank was full of surprises! She'd only planned to attend the banquet, but she'd bumped into Lucian, and now Mr. Lynch was also invited—someone she'd previously rejected as a mentor. Keeping him waiting would be impolite. Steeling herself, she said to Lucian, "If you don't mind, please give me a ride, Mr. Farwell."

A smile touched Lucian's lips as he recalled her earlier avoidance. "Well, since you've changed your mind, Ms. Jarvis, it's my honor."

He led her to his car. Once inside, Roxanne gave the driver her destination. "Please take me to Blossom Hotel."

The driver, arranged by Lucian's potential business partner, didn't know them. Seeing them together, he assumed they were a couple. Wow! They look like a perfect match!

He was momentarily stunned by Roxanne's request. "That's exactly where we're going," he replied instinctively.

The car's temperature seemed to plummet after his words. The driver shuddered, sensing the shift in mood, and began driving.

Roxanne and Lucian sat in the back, their expressions contrasting. Roxanne frowned, looking at Lucian suspiciously. How could this be a coincidence? Mr. Ziegler had said all attendees were prominent figures in the pharmaceutical industry. Farwell Group wasn't involved; why was he invited?

Lucian noticed her gaze. Unfazed, he turned to her. "It seems fate has brought us together."

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