Chapter 724: Please Do Not Take Offense

Subsequently, she rose and composed herself before going to the restaurant next door. "I'm sorry to have kept you waiting," she said upon entering, offering an apologetic look to Roxanne and Jack.

Their faint smiles expressed relief. "It's all right. Please take a seat."

Jessica sat beside them, surprised by the untouched food. "Didn't I ask you to start? Why did you wait for me? I'm so sorry the food is cold."

Roxanne, not knowing Jessica well, offered a cordial smile. Jack replied perfunctorily, "Since you're the host, it's right that we wait for you."

Silence fell. Roxanne, hoping for an early departure, exchanged an awkward glance with Jack. Their earlier conversation about the partnership would have to cease with Jessica present; Roxanne had no wish to linger.

Jack, catching her eye, understood. He broke the silence, saying, "Jessica, didn't you mention that this meal…"

Jessica, jolted, glanced at Roxanne. "Ah, I'm sorry. I was flustered after being stuck in traffic. I almost forgot I was supposed to apologize to Ms. Jarvis over dinner."

She rose, raising her glass to Roxanne. "I had too much to drink the other night, Ms. Jarvis. Please excuse my behavior. This toast is my apology!" She drained her glass, then showed it to them, pausing pointedly before Roxanne.

Roxanne looked conflicted, sensing Jessica's pressure to reciprocate. However, she only drank when absolutely necessary, and Jessica should be apologizing, not putting her in a difficult position.

"Ms. Jarvis, are you unwilling to forgive me?" Jessica asked, her brow slightly furrowed with remorse. "I understand, given my outrageous behavior. I was even grounded by my father. I've spent the last few days reflecting."

Pausing, she pursed her lips, turning to Jack. "I don't deny my feelings for Jack, but who he prefers is none of my business. I shouldn't have forced my feelings on him or put you both in a difficult spot. Whether you forgive me or not, I'm truly sorry."

Roxanne's eyes glinted at Jessica's sincerity. She hadn't been bothered by the incident, and a response was now appropriate. Raising her glass, she said, "Ms. Hightower, it's not as serious as you make it out to be. To be honest, I didn't take offense. You shouldn't either."

She smiled faintly, then downed her wine. Immediately, her brow furrowed.