Chapter 797: Awfully Intimate

“I believe the profits I’ve provided the Pearson family over the years are enough to repay Old Mr. Pearson’s kindness toward me. I’m also willing to help the Pearson family if the need arises; marrying Aubree is unnecessary,” Lucian replied.

He stared solemnly at Elias, anticipating a lecture like his mother’s. To his surprise, Elias nodded calmly after a pause. “Do what you believe is right. I can’t do much about your mother; that’s something you’ll have to handle yourself.”

Lucian was stunned. “Thanks, Dad.”

Elias nodded. “You said you still have business to attend to, so I won’t keep you. Go.”

Their interaction was brief and efficient. Lucian left without another word.

Entering the elevator, he considered calling Roxanne. Their last conversation hadn’t ended well. He wondered if she’d answer.

Meanwhile, on the banquet hall’s third floor, Roxanne was severely intoxicated and suffering from a splitting headache. Jack, noticing her distress, intervened, preventing further toasts. He steadied her and led her to a quiet corner.

Roxanne looked at him questioningly.

“You’ve had too much,” Jack said apologetically. “I’ll send you home.” He’d intended only a brief introduction to project members; he hadn’t anticipated her becoming so inebriated.

Roxanne, disoriented, mumbled, “Yeah, my head hurts,” massaging her forehead.

Jack frowned. “Come on, let’s get you home.”

He informed the others of their departure and helped Roxanne out of the banquet hall. Larry watched them leave, his expression unreadable.

Roxanne’s phone rang shortly after. She was barely able to walk; Jack’s support was essential even to reach the elevator. She fumbled for her phone, but the ringing stopped as they reached their floor. Only one man was in the elevator.

Jack helped Roxanne inside and pressed the button for the first floor. He then saw Lucian, his gaze icy.

“Hello, Mr. Farwell,” Jack greeted him smoothly after a brief, intense stare. He shifted his gaze to Roxanne in his arms.

Lucian’s expression darkened. He’d planned to call Roxanne’s landline, assuming she’d gone home. Instead, he found her incredibly drunk and intimately close to Jack.

“Dr. Jarvis had too much to drink,” Jack said, seemingly challenging Lucian.

Before the words fully registered, Lucian approached. Jack stood his ground, raising an eyebrow.