Chapter 728: Is the Hightower Family Involved?

Initially, Roxanne wanted to issue a statement. However, her Twitter account, primarily used for news browsing, lacked substantial content. Therefore, any statement she posted would likely reach few people.

After considering her options, she called Colby and asked him to use the research institute's account to release her clarification. While not particularly popular, this was a far better alternative than using her own account. Colby, having arrived early at the institute, only learned of the controversy when Roxanne called. Seeing pictures of Roxanne and Jack together, he felt a pang of unease. Roxanne sighed, explaining, "I can't offer a complete explanation, but last night was a misunderstanding. Neither of us was alone at dinner."

Though unconvinced, Colby remained hopeful, choosing to trust Roxanne. He reasoned that if he didn't trust her, he couldn't expect the online critics to do so either. Furthermore, Roxanne had no reason to lie. With a grim voice, he replied, "I understand. I'll post the statement." Roxanne acknowledged before ending the call.

Half an hour later, statements from both Jack and the research institute were released simultaneously, quickly trending. However, instead of calming the situation, the response was overwhelmingly hostile and skeptical. On Jack's Twitter account, netizens even began questioning the Damaris family's selection process.

Comments like, "Why are the Damaris family's selection criteria so lenient? How does one get involved in such an important project—or even listed—by pulling strings? Do you take us for fools?" and "Is being pretty all it takes? If so, I qualify!" flooded the feed. Jack found himself arguing with commenters.

After reviewing the comments, Roxanne messaged Jack: "Don't worry about me. I'll handle this."

Jack, busy responding to insults, was surprised by her message. He replied, "I caused this; I can't stand idly by."

Roxanne replied wryly, "Let me be the target of their criticism. At this rate, the Damaris family will be dragged in, and I'll take the blame."

Jack, frowning, reread the comments. He realized his presence had shifted the focus from Roxanne to the Damaris family. Continuing would ruin the family's century-old reputation. Weighing his options, he chose silence. However, he couldn't remain inactive. He messaged, "In that case, I'll investigate if the Hightower family is behind this." Roxanne agreed.

Meanwhile, once Jack withdrew, netizens swarmed the research institute's account, demanding an explanation from Roxanne. Colby, unable to tolerate the slander, posted a list of major projects the institute had completed under Roxanne's leadership. Unfortunately, most netizens, lacking the relevant expertise, ignored the details. Even those who understood the situation were quickly drowned out.