Chapter 722: Do You Feel Pressured?

Meanwhile, Roxanne had delegated Madilyn to pick up the children as she hurried to her meeting. No sooner had she left than she saw Jack's car at the entrance. He exited and looked behind her. Slightly disappointed, he asked, "Are the children still at school?"

Roxanne nodded. "A friend is picking them up. Why do you want to see them, Mr. Damaris?"

Jack casually nodded. "I brought them gifts. Since they're not here, I'll give them to the boys next time."

Roxanne was surprised by his thoughtfulness. "Since you got them presents, you should give them to the boys yourself," she said, a smile playing on her lips.

She turned toward her car, but Jack called out, "I think you shouldn't drive; it'll be difficult to avoid drinking tonight. You'll just have to collect your car tomorrow."

Roxanne hesitated, a conflicted expression on her face. She remembered Jessica's tantrum when she'd gotten drunk because of Jack's proximity. If Jessica saw her arrive in Jack's car, she might change her mind about apologizing.

Jack reassured her, "What happened last time was my fault. Since nothing is going on between us, don't worry. If Jessica repeats her accusations, I'll clear things up."

Sensing his responsibility, Roxanne frowned. "It's not your fault, Mr. Damaris. Don't blame yourself."

She glanced at her watch; it was time to go. Any further delay would make them late. Roxanne stopped hesitating and approached Jack. Declining his offer of the front seat, she got into the back. Despite his frown, he respected her concerns and didn't insist.

Soon, the car pulled away from Roxanne's home. During the drive, Roxanne asked, "Why was the list of partners announced so suddenly?"

Jack replied, "It wasn't sudden. The Damaris family has been preparing for a long time and contacted the media. Since the project is a public service, they deserve to know. Announcing the list shows transparency and the project's importance to the family."

Roxanne was amazed. Larry's earlier mention of upcoming commencement events hadn't seemed serious, but the Damaris family had indeed engaged the media. Jack's explanation, however, made the timing understandable.

"Actually, I wanted to tell you yesterday, but Grandpa called me away," Jack said, showing concern. "Do you feel pressured by the sudden announcement?"

Roxanne, seeing no reason to hide her feelings from her fellow doctor, nodded. "A little, but the pressure will motivate me."