Chapter 700: Voluntarily Apologizing

Roxanne's reply was swift: "Thank you, but it's what I should have done. We will be working together in the future, so please don't be so courteous every time."

Jack smiled cautiously and replied, "Indeed, it won't happen again." A rustling sound came from upstairs as he sent the text.

He pocketed his phone, his gaze rising to see a middle-aged man guiding Hector down the stairs in slow, measured steps, both engaged in conversation.

The man's presence caused Jack to frown, but politeness dictated his greeting: "Grandpa, Mr. Hightower." The man was Stephen Hightower, Jessica's father.

Jack wondered why he'd been summoned home. The only reason he could imagine was Stephen pleading his daughter's case after the previous night's events. Irritation flared as he recalled the night. Hector and Stephen turned to face him as he spoke. "You're home so soon?" Hector asked, smiling, clearly enjoying his conversation with Stephen.

Jack frowned and nodded. "Why did you call me back?"

Hector glanced at Stephen. "I hope we didn't interrupt you by summoning you back so abruptly," Stephen said, his concern conveying an apology. With Hector present, Jack avoided escalating the situation, replying simply, "No."

Stephen sighed with relief. "That's good. I had your grandfather call you home after Jessica told me things between you two are tense. I'd like to apologize on her behalf."

"You and Jessica grew up together," Hector advised. "What could possibly strain your relationship? You can both talk it out, whatever it is."

Now that Hector had spoken, Jack said, "She was drunk that night. Tell her it doesn't matter, and she shouldn't take it personally."

Then, a thought struck him. Wait. Jessica should be apologizing to someone else. The commotion she caused was a mere annoyance to him, but Roxanne suffered the most. She should be apologizing to her.

Stephen seemed to sense his thoughts. "Jessica mentioned another lady was involved and said she hopes to meet her to formally apologize."

Jack's eyes reflected doubt. When had Jessica become so mature?

"You should know the lady if you were both there that night. Why don't you arrange for Jessica to apologize to her?" Stephen suggested.

Jack's doubt intensified. As far as he knew, Jessica was domineering and never admitted fault. Why would she voluntarily apologize, especially to Roxanne, whom she detested?

Hector spoke before Jack could probe further. "Do Mr. Hightower a favor since he asked. I'm guessing the other lady is Dr. Jarvis. Though we only met once, I know she isn't one to hold a grudge."

Jack frowned. "It's not that simple, Grandpa."