Hearing that, Roxanne's expression froze. She pursed her lips and remained silent for the rest of the journey.

The car slowly halted at the entrance of the Blossom Hotel. Numerous luxury cars were already parked outside, suggesting the banquet had begun. Roxanne felt a surge of anxiety and wanted to rush inside upon exiting the car.

Lucian frowned and asked coldly, "Is this how you show your gratitude, Ms. Jarvis?"

Roxanne stopped, turning to him with a puzzled expression. After a moment's hesitation, she replied, "Thank you, Mr. Farwell." She then turned to leave.

"That's all, Ms. Jarvis?" Lucian asked sarcastically.

Feeling anxious and helpless, yet maintaining her composure, Roxanne answered, "What would you like me to do, Mr. Farwell? I haven't the time for coffee."

Lucian smiled ambiguously and approached her. "What I require won't take up your time. I simply need a female partner for the banquet. If you don't mind, please accompany me, Ms. Jarvis."

Roxanne pursed her lips and furrowed her brows, silent. Accepting would invite misunderstandings; refusing would likely incur his displeasure, and probably still lead to speculation. She decided to accept, setting mental boundaries.

Roxanne agreed nonchalantly. Ignoring his outstretched arm, she walked into the hotel beside him. Lucian smiled and allowed it.

The banquet was held on the second floor. Their entrance immediately drew everyone's attention. One in white, the other in black, they appeared, to onlookers, a perfect match, despite their lack of intimacy. They moved towards the center of the room under countless gazes.

Roxanne endured the stares, quickly scanning the crowd. Relieved to see no one from Horington, she inwardly sighed but subtly distanced herself from Lucian as they walked.

He countered her actions deliberately. Roxanne stopped, offering a forced smile. "You need to socialize, Mr. Farwell. I'll stay out of your way." She nodded slightly and moved away.

Lucian's gaze darkened, though he didn't stop her; he hadn't expected her compliance. He'd asked on a whim, and her agreement surprised him. Could it be because we're not in Harington? he mused, a self-deprecating smile playing on his lips.

Roxanne reached a quiet corner, searching for Gerald when a familiar voice interrupted.

"Roxanne, are you and Mr. Farwell…" Larry, a prominent young figure, also invited by Ziegler Group, was surprised to see her, even more so to see her with Lucian.