Chapter 878: Not Free

With the combined efforts of the four, all the medicinal herbs were quickly transferred to the storage room. After moving the last bottle, Roxanne walked to a corner and checked her phone. The screen remained blank; no missed calls, let alone a reply from Lucian. She stared at it for a few seconds, briefly considering calling Archie and Benny.

Just then, she heard footsteps and turned to see Jack and Colby approaching, engaged in conversation. They stopped upon seeing her and smiled. Roxanne frowned, pocketed her phone, and walked toward them.

"What are you two doing here?" she asked, confused.

"You disappeared so quickly after we finished moving the herbs, we had to find you," Jack explained.

"Sorry," she said. "I was busy and left without saying anything. I'm sorry for worrying you."

Jack nodded casually. "It's alright. I'm glad you're fine."

Colby's eyes momentarily darkened before returning to normal as he looked at Roxanne. After a pause, he suggested, "Dr. Jarvis, since we're all here, why don't we check out the equipment we discussed two days ago?"

Roxanne and Colby had been discussing the research institute's need for new medical equipment. Unfortunately, Roxanne's involvement with the Damaris Group project had prevented her from looking at it. Hearing Colby's suggestion, she felt hesitant. She'd promised Archie and Benny a quick return, and she wasn't in the mood to work; even if she went, she doubted she could concentrate.

As she considered how to refuse, Jack interjected, "I almost forgot, but Archie and Benny aren't feeling well. Ms. Jarvis must be worried. If it's not urgent, she can look at it another day. I can accompany you both," he offered considerately, smiling as he moved closer to Roxanne.

Relief washed over Roxanne's face. She didn't know why Jack had offered this excuse, but she accepted it gratefully. "Sorry, Dr. Galloway, but I'm not free today."

"It's all my fault," Jack chimed in. "I knew Archie and Benny were sick, yet I still asked you to help. They must resent me."

Roxanne shook her head. "They won't. They're very understanding." Turning to Colby, she added, "Getting new equipment isn't urgent. We can check it out in a few days. If you're in a hurry, you can look first, and if you find a company you like, we can check it out together later." Her voice held a note of finality.

With Archie and Benny ill, Colby had no choice but to concede, affecting a thoughtful expression. "I see. I sensed something was off. Please send them my regards. I'll visit when I'm free."

"I will," Roxanne replied, smiling. She waved goodbye and left the institute, hailing a ride.