After a pleasant interlude between Daniel and Roxanne, the meal was jovial.
When lunch ended, the doctors returned to their cubicles in groups, the children obediently following. Many doctors had already bonded with the children.
The children clustered around Roxanne, making it difficult for Jack and the others to move. They finally reached their cubicle, Roxanne's candy nearly depleted.
Daniel, however, still had candy, making him more popular as the children, smiles replacing earlier unhappiness, crowded around him.
Roxanne was warmed by the children's growing fondness for Daniel. She understood children; they rarely held grudges. Sincere treatment elicited genuine affection, and these children were no different.
When Daniel's candy was almost gone, Roxanne clapped her hands, calling the children to line up. "Darlings," she said, "it's time for your treatment."
The children, trusting them completely, lined up immediately and waited quietly, needing no further inducement. The four adults exchanged smiling glances before beginning their work.
Soon, a cautious knock sounded on the cubicle door. Everyone turned.
"Mr. Damaris," a staff member announced, "a delivery of supplies arrived at the orphanage, intended for you." The staff member awaited Jack's instructions. The news stunned everyone. The free medical consultation was underway; why the sudden supplies? Moreover, Jack knew nothing of this.
Regaining his composure, Jack frowned. "Tell them to return it to the sender," he instructed, "and that the Damaris family does not accept unsolicited supplies during free consultations."
For years, prioritizing patient safety, the Damaris family procured its own resources. Even when supplies were needed, they contacted other prestigious families beforehand, never accepting donations from unknown sources. They couldn't guarantee the quality; any issues would leave the Damaris family liable.
The staff member hesitated. "It's from the Queen family. Should we still refuse?"
Jack and Larry instinctively looked at Roxanne, the only one with a connection to the Queen family that might explain the donation. Though the Damaris and Queen families were amicable, the Queens had never offered assistance before. This donation followed Roxanne's recommendation, suggesting her involvement.
Noticing their gaze, Roxanne waved her hands, bewildered. The Queen family's recommendation was sufficient; she hadn't heard Alfred or Jonathan mention this donation.
Their understanding dawned on Jack and Larry. The staff member pressed cautiously, "Mr. Damaris, the supplies..."
Jack hesitated. From anyone else, he'd refuse. But considering the goodwill between the families, he needed to consult first.