Roxanne frowned in exasperation. "We met by coincidence downstairs," she said, unsure how to begin.

Larry looked doubtful.

Roxanne relaxed her brows, pleading, "Anyway, it's not what you think. It's impossible between me and him." She wanted to avoid any misunderstanding regarding her relationship with Lucian.

Seeing her sincerity, Larry smiled gently and dropped the subject. "Mr. Lynch is resting upstairs; Mr. Ziegler is keeping him company. They're waiting for you. Are you looking for them?"

Roxanne, who had searched for them all day without success, sighed with relief and nodded. "Where are they? Please take me to them. I have something important to discuss with Mr. Ziegler, and I need to apologize to Mr. Lynch."

Larry readily agreed, leading her from the banquet hall upstairs.

Lucian watched them go, his expression impassive, rage simmering within. So, this Morrison chap is the reason for Roxanne's sudden change of attitude? And why are they going upstairs together? What are they doing?

"Mr. Farwell?" his business partner called cautiously.

Lucian turned, his face gloomy.

The partner shuddered but, summoning his courage, handed Lucian the agreement.

Lucian scanned it and signed. His anger toward Roxanne intensified with each passing moment.

Before the partner could speak, Lucian turned abruptly and strode from the banquet hall.

Meanwhile, Roxanne followed Larry into a room where Gerald sat in the main seat. Jasper and several other high-ranking individuals were gathered around him, laughing and conversing.

Their conversation ceased at Roxanne and Larry's entrance. Jasper rose, introducing them. "This is Dr. Jarvis, the doctor recommended by Mr. Queen." He then addressed Roxanne, "These are the representatives from the companies we'll be discussing the collaboration with."

Roxanne, having a fair idea of their identities, greeted them with composed professionalism. "I apologize for keeping you waiting."

Gerald waved dismissively. "We were simply waiting. Don't worry. I told them not to call you, but they insisted." The others echoed his sentiments.

Jasper, clearly close to Gerald, smiled. "I was only informing her of your presence. I didn't intend to rush her." Gerald chuckled.

Roxanne smiled and joined them.

Jasper promptly initiated the discussion about the collaboration. Roxanne concisely explained the business proposal she'd discussed with Colby.

Surprisingly, Jasper agreed immediately, awaiting the others' responses. However, the others hesitated.

Roxanne's anxiety grew.

Just as her apprehension peaked, Gerald spoke, his gaze apologetic. "I've heard about your research institute. I've always wanted to help, but I lack the influence. While my words carry weight, I'm just an academician, unfamiliar with the business world. I fear no one would be convinced, even if I spoke for you."

The room's atmosphere shifted dramatically.