Chapter 730: What Makes You Say That?

As the commotion drew closer, Lucian entered Roxanne's field of vision, his expression stern. Roxanne stared, astonished. "Why are you here?"

His formal attire suggested a recent meeting, yet his tie was loosened, as if tugged. At her question, Lucian's expression turned icy. "If you can be here, why can't I?" He shot her a look, suppressing his anger, then addressed the reporters. "If you have questions, I will answer on her behalf."

The crowd recoiled under his gaze, exchanging nervous glances. Silence fell; no one dared speak. Lucian's status ensured any misstep could cost their jobs.

Lucian frowned, grasped the woman behind him by the wrist, and addressed the crowd. "If there are no questions, I'm taking her away."

Without waiting, he took Roxanne's hand and pulled her through the crowd. The previously clamorous group fell silent, parting before their powerful presence.

Stepping free of the crowd, Roxanne had barely registered relief before her anxiety intensified, focusing on the man before her.

"Get in," Lucian commanded, opening the passenger door of his car. His voice was chillingly cold.

Roxanne pursed her lips, remaining still. "I drove myself here; I can drive back." Though flustered, she maintained her composure. "The rumors about Jack and me are unsubstantiated and will only worsen if I get in your car in front of those reporters."

Her refusal further enraged Lucian. Earlier, leaving the conference room, Cayden had broken the news about Roxanne and Jack. Lucian already suspected their relationship; the online photos only confirmed his suspicions, yet ironically spurred him to action. Seeing Roxanne surrounded at the research institute entrance ignited his rage, yet he'd rushed to her defense. And still, she rejected his help.

Roxanne noticed his mounting anger and softened her voice. "I don't want to be misunderstood anymore. Go. Otherwise, you'll be dragged into this."

Suspicion flickered in Lucian's eyes before he glanced at the lingering crowd. They were watching, but at his gaze, quickly dispersed.

Only then did Lucian address her, frowning. "What makes you say that?"

Roxanne met his gaze, noticing a flicker of trust beneath the doubt. She knew his suspicions: while others questioned her project involvement, he only doubted her relationship with Jack.

The irony struck her: despite her explanations, Lucian clung to his belief about her and Jack. Even his help felt tinged with irritation over those photos.