Chapter 639

“Mr. Damaris, what do you want to say to me?” Roxanne asked, settling beside him. She genuinely wished to avoid a scene; Jessica's intense stare beside her made her uneasy. If Jack didn't offer a topic soon, Roxanne feared Jessica's gaze would burn a hole through her.

Jack, aware of the situation, said casually, “I'll be relying on both of you for this collaboration, so let me express my thanks first.” He raised his glass and drained it. Roxanne politely lifted hers and took a few sips.

Jessica’s friends, noticing Jack’s treatment of Roxanne, grumbled and whispered amongst themselves. Jessica, already feeling threatened by Roxanne, found their comments infuriating.

“It seems you’re quite crucial to this collaboration, Dr. Jarvis,” Jessica said through gritted teeth, raising her glass. “I’ll thank you on Jack’s behalf. I hope you enjoy working with him.” She started to drink, but Jack stopped her with a frown.

“There’s no need. Dr. Jarvis and I know each other; I can thank her myself,” Jack said, staring coldly at Jessica. He knew her thoughts, but their families’ good relationship had always kept him from openly confronting her. However, he couldn't tolerate her blatant disregard for the situation.

Jessica’s smile faltered; she paled. Those nearby understood Jack’s implication: Roxanne was closer to him than Jessica. Jessica’s hand, holding her wine glass, froze.

An awkward silence followed. Roxanne, caught in the middle, felt a headache coming on. Finally, unable to bear Jessica’s embarrassment, she said, “Ultimately, we all need to work hard on this collaboration; let’s toast to that.”

The others agreed and raised their glasses. Jessica seized the opportunity to take a sip before returning her glass.

“It seems you’ll be getting down to business. My friends and I will leave,” said Jessica, her face pale. She stood, then lowered her head to look at Roxanne. “Dr. Jarvis, I need to speak with you. Would you mind seeing us to the door?”

Roxanne was puzzled but agreed. Following them to the doorway, she asked, “Ms. Hightower, what is it?”

Jessica glanced at the others before turning back, her smile masking a cold tone. “Don’t assume I’m thanking you for saving me. I’m warning you to stay away from Jack.”

Roxanne frowned. She hadn’t expected such animosity at a work function. Despite her best efforts to be friendly, Jessica’s hostility only intensified.