Chapter 647

Everyone heard Jessica clearly, though their limited medical knowledge resulted only in nods of acknowledgement. They assumed accomplished doctors were typically older, not associating Roxanne's youth and beauty with medical expertise.

Jessica's hand moved closer to Roxanne's face, prompting a chilling reaction; Roxanne prepared to swat it away. But before she could, a large hand intervened, swiftly immobilizing Jessica's. The forceful grip caused Jessica to lose her balance, stumbling back and missing Roxanne.

"You could consult Dr. Lambert about her skills, or ask Old Mr. Queen," Lucian said scornfully, his gaze fixed on the inebriated woman. "And if you can't control yourself after a few drinks, you shouldn't attend these functions."

Before Jessica could reply, Lucian addressed Cayden: "Get someone to send Ms. Hightower home." Cayden readily complied.

Lucian's grip had hurt Jessica's wrist, jolting her from her stupor. Her vision cleared, and she recognized him. "M-Mr. Farwell?" she stammered.

Lucian glared. Seeing her sobriety return, he pushed her aside with disdain. "I'm glad you've sobered up, Ms. Hightower. I suggest you refrain from drinking in the future."

Jessica's legs felt weak; she staggered before regaining her balance. Overwhelmed by Lucian's harshness, she remained silent, head bowed.

When Cayden returned with assistance, he awaited Lucian's further instructions. Lucian glanced at Roxanne, who clearly wished to distance herself from the situation.

"It's great you're sober now, Ms. Hightower," Roxanne said. "I'd like to excuse myself." Addressing the crowd, she added, "It was a misunderstanding. Let's move on and avoid gossip."

Lucian, though disagreeing with her downplaying the incident, remained silent, reinforcing her words with a stern look at the onlookers. The crowd, cowed by his gaze, agreed to keep quiet.

Roxanne offered a grateful smile, yet a weariness was unmistakable in her eyes. The alcohol and the confrontation had left her drained.

Noticing her exhaustion, Lucian's expression darkened. He instructed Cayden, "Send Ms. Hightower home, and inform Mr. Hightower that it was my order."

Jessica processed this slowly, but others grasped the implications. They anticipated dire consequences for her. If Stephen Hightower learned of his daughter's offense against Lucian, her public life might be over.