Ch. 1611..1620
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1611-A hint of amusement flashed across Lucian’s eyes when he saw how Roxanne wanted to deny it but was hesitant to speak. In a deep voice, he instructed the head of Neon Boutique, “Keep it simple. She doesn’t like anything too extravagant.”
The person nodded repeatedly and even praised Roxanne, “Mrs. Farwell is a natural beauty. She’s gorgeous even without makeup. You two are simply a perfect match, Mr. Farwell!”
Roxanne did not let the remark get to her. He probably praised Aubree the same way when she came for styling a few months ago.
The head of Neon Boutique took two hours to style Roxanne and Lucian.
He fixed Roxanne’s cascading locks behind her ear with a gleaming pearl hairpin and gifted her a pair of pearl earrings. In addition to presenting her with subtle yet sophisticated makeup, he also attired her in a snowy white slim-fitted blazer with a corresponding skirt in the same tone, endowing her with a delicate and refined appearance.
As for Lucian, he deftly combed his hair backward, accentuating his flawlessly chiseled facial features. He then dressed him in a sleek black suit that complemented Roxanne’s attire and adorned his sleeves with exquisite pearl cufflinks, echoing the elegance of Roxanne’s earrings.
At first glance, the two looked like a couple.
Seeing their outfits, Roxanne could not help but hesitate. “Lucian, I think…”A hint of omusement floshed ocross Lucion’s eyes when he sow how Roxonne wonted to deny it but wos hesitont to speok. In o deep voice, he instructed the heod of Neon Boutique, “Keep it simple. She doesn’t like onything too extrovogont.”
The person nodded repeotedly ond even proised Roxonne, “Mrs. Forwell is o noturol beouty. She’s gorgeous even without mokeup. You two ore simply o perfect motch, Mr. Forwell!”
Roxonne did not let the remork get to her. He probobly proised Aubree the some woy when she come for styling o few months ogo.
The heod of Neon Boutique took two hours to style Roxonne ond Lucion.
He fixed Roxonne’s coscoding locks behind her eor with o gleoming peorl hoirpin ond gifted her o poir of peorl eorrings. In oddition to presenting her with subtle yet sophisticoted mokeup, he olso ottired her in o snowy white slim-fitted blozer with o corresponding skirt in the some tone, endowing her with o delicote ond refined oppeoronce.
As for Lucion, he deftly combed his hoir bockword, occentuoting his flowlessly chiseled fociol feotures. He then dressed him in o sleek block suit thot complemented Roxonne’s ottire ond odorned his sleeves with exquisite peorl cufflinks, echoing the elegonce of Roxonne’s eorrings.
At first glonce, the two looked like o couple.
Seeing their outfits, Roxonne could not help but hesitote. “Lucion, I think…” A hint of amusement flashed across Lucian’s eyes when he saw how Roxanne wanted to deny it but was hesitant to speak. In a deep voice, he instructed the head of Neon Boutique, “Keep it simple. She doesn’t like anything too extravagant.”
She wanted to say it was inappropriate for them to appear like a couple, but Lucian was satisfied with their looks. He even told the person in charge he would buy all the garments and accessories worn today.
Roxanne was taken aback when she saw the bill of the entire ensemble, together with their styling, amounted to nearly a million.
Confronted with such a staggering amount, she had to bite back her initial disbelief. Any last-minute alterations would undoubtedly cost them even more. Just because Lucian has money doesn’t mean we should spend it like there’s no tomorrow.
It was one in the afternoon when they left Neon Boutique.
They only had an hour left until the press conference.
Jonathan, who had called to hurry them along, was relieved when he learned they were on their way.
During their journey to the conference, Roxanne briefly hesitated and considered removing her earrings.
“Are you so afraid of others knowing about our relationship?” Lucian expressed his dissatisfaction.
Roxanne paused. “I just feel they’re too flashy…”
“The media has been speculating about our relationship since the last statement was released. If we’re seen together, it’s practically an official announcement. So, what difference do our outfits make?” Lucian said with his eyes fixed on the road ahead.
He only said so because he was afraid Roxanne would refuse to wear the same outfit as him.
It was a spur-of-the-moment decision, as Lucian saw the opportunity to make their relationship official and decided to seize it.
Roxanne hesitated for a moment before responding softly, “I don’t mean to upset you. I just feel the signing ceremony is a work occasion.” She continued nudging Lucian. “Besides, even if I don’t wear the earrings, our clothes are already matching.”
As Roxanne took a gentler approach to make him understand her concern, Lucian reached out and held her hands.
The thought of Farwell Group and Queen Group conducting a joint press conference still gave Roxanne butterflies in her stomach.
Throughout the drive to the venue, Roxanne kept asking Lucian for guidance on the details to pay attention to during the joint conference.
Lucian, noticing her anxiety, did his best to ease her anxiety and reassure her.
When they arrived, a swarm of journalists had already surrounded Jonathan.
As soon as Lucian and Roxanne stepped out of the car, the journalists quickly turned their attention toward them and rushed in their direction.
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1612-Roxanne was stunned by the scene.
Lucian immediately shielded her behind him as he stared at the reporters expressionlessly.
“Mr. Farwell, how goes things in your relationship with Ms. Jarvis? Are you two about to remarry?”
“Dr. Jarvis, why did you leave Mr. Farwell back then?”
One after another, questions flooded Roxanne’s ears.
Roxanne drew her brows together, unhappy to hear the questions.
The focus of the press conference that day was their collaboration, yet the reporters kept bombarding them with questions about their personal life.
Seemingly reading her mind, Lucian said coldly, “Sorry, but we’re only going to talk about work matters today. There will be a Q&A session later, so I won’t be answering anything right now.”
With that, he led Roxanne forward.
Right then, Jonathan rushed over, and the two men kept Roxanne protected between them as they went to the table up ahead.
The three of them took their seats as the lights flashed below the stage.
The press conference was broadcasted live on the internet as well.
When the netizens saw Roxanne appearing with Lucian, the chatroom went into an uproar.
One netizen wrote: Dr. Jarvis is a beauty! She’s my waifu, and Mr. Farwell’s my husbando!
Someone replied: Keep dreaming! Mr. Farwell and Dr. Jarvis are the ultimate couple! They’re even wearing matching outfits! What kind of otherworldly love do they have? Roxonne wos stunned by the scene.
Lucion immediotely shielded her behind him os he stored ot the reporters expressionlessly.
“Mr. Forwell, how goes things in your relotionship with Ms. Jorvis? Are you two obout to remorry?”
“Dr. Jorvis, why did you leove Mr. Forwell bock then?”
One ofter onother, questions flooded Roxonne’s eors.
Roxonne drew her brows together, unhoppy to heor the questions.
The focus of the press conference thot doy wos their colloborotion, yet the reporters kept bombording them with questions obout their personol life.
Seemingly reoding her mind, Lucion soid coldly, “Sorry, but we’re only going to tolk obout work motters todoy. There will be o Q&A session loter, so I won’t be onswering onything right now.”
With thot, he led Roxonne forword.
Right then, Jonothon rushed over, ond the two men kept Roxonne protected between them os they went to the toble up oheod.
The three of them took their seots os the lights floshed below the stoge.
The press conference wos broodcosted live on the internet os well.
When the netizens sow Roxonne oppeoring with Lucion, the chotroom went into on uproor.
One netizen wrote: Dr. Jorvis is o beouty! She’s my woifu, ond Mr. Forwell’s my husbondo!
Someone replied: Keep dreoming! Mr. Forwell ond Dr. Jorvis ore the ultimote couple! They’re even weoring motching outfits! Whot kind of otherworldly love do they hove? Roxanne was stunned by the scene.
Lucian immediately shielded her behind him as he stared at the reporters expressionlessly.
Another commented: Dr. Jarvis is as attractive and capable as Mr. Farwell if she can work with him! Who’d get sick of a power couple like them?
The people were chatting away, but all they had were praises for Roxanne.
When they saw Roxanne and Lucian signing the contract, they sang even more compliments about them.
At that moment, Sonya, who had found out that Farwell Group would be working with Roxanne’s research institute that afternoon from Elias and said she did not care about it, was tuning in to the live broadcast.
When she saw the matching outfit her son had worn with Roxanne, her expression darkened.
“Is he working or what? Does he even know what all these people are talking about? Is there even anyone who cares about the collaboration?”
Elias glanced at the broadcast and agreed with them. “It’s not as if they’re wrong. Roxanne’s indeed much more capable than Aubree.”
Sonya shot him a glare in response. “Roxanne must be the one who made Lucian wear that! She must have pestered Lucian until he agreed to the collaboration too!”
How else would Roxanne’s tiny research institute get the chance to work with Farwell Group?
Elias disagreed. “Even if you don’t believe Roxanne, you should have trust in Lucian. He’s not one to prioritize his heart over his mind. The clothes…” Upon deliberation, he continued confidently, “I’d say it was Lucian who suggested wearing matching outfits instead.”
Elias had been working in the corporate world for so many years. He could easily spot Roxanne’s uneasiness.
Even though she seemed as though she was unbothered by everything, he noticed that she would look at her clothes awkwardly every once in a while.
He guessed that she must be troubled by the clothes she was wearing.
Elias smiled and shook his head.
I have to admit that my son has crossed the line by doing this.
Uncomfortable to hear Elias siding with Roxanne and see the netizens complimenting Roxanne, Sonya forcibly changed the topic.
“Stop watching. Elektra and her family will be reaching soon. Hurry up and tidy up a little before we welcome them in. It’s been years since we last saw them. I wonder how Elektra is doing now.”
The Lane family was a family friend of the Farwell family. They were a leading figure in luxury goods and migrated to Epea a few years ago.
Elektra Lane was the Lane family’s only daughter, and she was two years older than Lucian. The two of them were considered childhood friends.
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1613-Meanwhile, Hector saw the live broadcast on the internet as well.
When he saw Lucian announce that Farwell Group would be working with Roxanne’s research institute and that Queen Group would be supplying medicinal herbs to the research institute, he was dumbfounded.
He switched on the television and told someone to summon Jack.
“What’s the matter, Grandpa?”
Jack had been confidently waiting for Roxanne to relent to him, so he did not think much of Hector’s summon.
However, the second he entered the room, he saw the live broadcast on the television screen, and he paled.
“Answer me. How is our collaboration with Dr. Jarvis going so far?” Hector asked, clinging to the last bit of hope.
By then, Roxanne and Lucian were already signing the contract as shown on the screen.
Knowing that he could not keep the matters under wrap anymore, Jack tried to keep a lighthearted tone as he said, “As you can see, not too well.”
Hector slammed his cane against the floor. “What do you mean by not too well? It’s not going too well to the point Dr. Jarvis decided to turn to another company for her supply of medicinal herbs?”
A while ago, Hector had heard that Roxanne’s research institute had developed a new kind of drug that could be released to the market soon. Meonwhile, Hector sow the live broodcost on the internet os well.
When he sow Lucion onnounce thot Forwell Group would be working with Roxonne’s reseorch institute ond thot Queen Group would be supplying medicinol herbs to the reseorch institute, he wos dumbfounded.
He switched on the television ond told someone to summon Jock.
“Whot’s the motter, Grondpo?”
Jock hod been confidently woiting for Roxonne to relent to him, so he did not think much of Hector’s summon.
However, the second he entered the room, he sow the live broodcost on the television screen, ond he poled.
“Answer me. How is our colloborotion with Dr. Jorvis going so for?” Hector osked, clinging to the lost bit of hope.
By then, Roxonne ond Lucion were olreody signing the controct os shown on the screen.
Knowing thot he could not keep the motters under wrop onymore, Jock tried to keep o lightheorted tone os he soid, “As you con see, not too well.”
Hector slommed his cone ogoinst the floor. “Whot do you meon by not too well? It’s not going too well to the point Dr. Jorvis decided to turn to onother compony for her supply of medicinol herbs?”
A while ogo, Hector hod heord thot Roxonne’s reseorch institute hod developed o new kind of drug thot could be releosed to the morket soon. Meanwhile, Hector saw the live broadcast on the internet as well.
Hector had even thought about heading to the research institute in person to find out what the new drug was like, but Jack stopped him.
Hector did not dwell on Jack’s actions at that time.
After all, Damaris Group had been doing better and better under Jack’s lead. Hector believed that Jack’s collaboration with Roxanne would go equally smoothly.
Yet, his wait lasted for half a month.
Hector had never thought that not only would he not hear the good news about Damaris Group’s collaboration with Roxanne, but he would also hear the announcement of Roxanne’s collaboration with another company.
At the sight of Hector’s fury and the matching outfits and close proximity of Roxanne and Lucian, Jack was filled with rage.
He had never expected Roxanne to actually look for another company, let alone through the Farwell family.
Not only did he not get what he wanted, but he even gifted his idea to Farwell Group.
“I want an explanation! What is going on?” Hector roared and stomped the ground when he heard no reply from Jack.
Jack came back to his senses and lowered his gaze in silent contemplation for a while.
“Grandpa, I’ve tried my best to score a collaboration with her, but you have no idea how Dr. Jarvis, with Lucian’s guidance, refused to relent when it came to the profits. She had been putting us in tough spots, and it was impossible for us to negotiate anything with her.”
Hector snapped, “Why didn’t you come to me when this happened?”
Jack quietly raked his gaze over Hector in disdain, but he maintained a respectful look. “Dr. Jarvis told me she needed time to mull over this after our last negotiation. I never thought she would immediately work with another company instead. It’s true that Dr. Jarvis is an excellent doctor, but she’s not a good business partner. She doesn’t even have integrity.”
In other words, Jack was putting the blame on her.
“Shut up!” Hector threw the cup on the table in his wrath. “Why didn’t you come to seek my help when you weren’t able to come to an agreement on the profits? I’m old, not dead!”
If Roxanne were to work with Damaris Group for her newly developed drug, Damaris Group would be able to reach a new high in their reputation.
Alas, that had nothing to do with Damaris Group anymore.
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1614-The Reputation Of The Damaris Family
Jack was still unperturbed despite Hector's wrath. He said, “Grandpa, Dr. Jarvis was insistent about selling the new drug for a hundred and twenty per box. I'm afraid no one will accept that price because that will not be a profiting deal.”
When Hector heard that, his vision went dark, and he nearly passed out from his anger.
He did not expect the heir he handpicked to put such importance on profits.
“Is the Damaris family short of that small amount of money?” the elderly man asked as he held his chest and gasped for air.
Jack lowered his head and fell silent, but anyone could still tell what he was thinking about. He felt that the company would end up making losses, so it was not worth working with Roxanne.
A surge of disappointment washed over Hector as he looked at his grandson. “I chose you as the Damaris family's heir because I thought you'd understand that the Damaris family's reputation of a hundred years was made with the kindness of physicians, not the wealth of physicians.”
Jack answered gloomily, “I understand.”
Hector glared at him again. “You do not! How many years has it been since the Damaris family develop a drug that can change many people's lives? We were close to developing a good drug by working with Roxanne, but you messed it up!”
At that point, the press conference had reached its end. Roxanne and the other two men had gone past the crowd of reporters with the bodyguards escorting them.
The collaboration had been set in stone.
Knowing that there was no way to turn the tables anymore, Hector gave up. He waved his hand dismissively and muttered, “Forget it. I think you've lost track of your initial aspiration. Set aside your task in managing Damaris Group and work in pro bono medical consultations instead to get back your original aspiration. I'll get someone else to manage Damaris Group for now.”
Jack's heart lurched when he heard that, and he snapped his head upward to stare at Hector in disbelief.
Damaris Group has come so far today because of my hard work, but now Grandpa is kicking me aside just like this? How can I just accept this? I haven't even reached my goal yet!
Suppressing the emotions bubbling in his chest, Jack lowered his head and apologized to Hector. “Grandpa, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have made this decision on my own, but I'm sure there's a way to reverse this situation with Dr. Jarvis. Let me have another talk with her.”
Hector shook his head in disappointment. “It's too late now. Didn't you see that? The whole world now knows that Dr. Jarvis is working with Farwell Group and Queen Group.”
The Damaris family no longer had anything to do with the new drug her research institute developed.
All Hector could hope now was for the public not to know about how the Damaris family could not continue working with Roxanne because of conflicts in profit.
If the news about that were to spread, the Damaris family's reputation might suffer.
“Close to a hundred types of medicinal herbs are involved in the new drug. There's no way Roxanne could find replacements for all of them. There must be at least a type that she hasn't found a source for yet, so she'll still have to work with Damaris Group!”
Jack still refused to give up.
Hector did not see a point in wasting his breath on his grandson, so he waved his hand tiredly and uttered, “I'm old now. I can't lord over you anymore. Despite being the heir of a family of doctors, you see more value in money than in helping others. One day, you will end up falling from grace because of this.”
With that, Hector went upstairs.
Jack's face clouded over.
He's right. He's old now, so he can't even tell wrong from right. The Damaris family is now on the pedestal of the medical field, worshipped by so many, but what use is that? It's nothing but a title at the end of the day, and we even have to spend much money and time to maintain that name of ours with all those pro bono medical consultations. Eventually, the Damaris family will go bankrupt. The reputation of being kind isn't something the Damaris family needs anymore. What the Damaris family needs is money. We need to make a profit!
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1615-A Pleasure To Work With You
The news of the three organizations working together spread like wildfire.
In a mansion in the suburbs, Frieda was seated rigidly on the couch as she stared at Shawn's back.
The man was elegantly brewing coffee by the coffee machine.
A moment later, he brought the fresh coffee to her with a smile. “This is all thanks to you, Ms. Queen. It's a pleasure to work with you.”
Frieda was momentarily struck dazed by his smile, but when she heard his words of thanks, she quickly flashed him a smile of her own and answered, “It's nothing. I only mentioned it to my brother. That's all.”
Frieda was the one who recommended the trading company that Jonathan contacted for Roxanne.
That company belonged to Shawn and was recommended to Frieda by Shawn himself before getting recommended to Jonathan.
Jonathan had been having trouble with finding a supplier back then, so when Frieda recommended the company to him, he only looked into it to make sure that the company was capable enough for the collaboration. He did not go deep into his research, and he even praised Frieda for the recommendation.
Frieda gazed at Shawn in gratitude before saying, “I should be the one thanking you. With your recommendation, my brother is not that biased against me anymore.”
Shawn gave her another smile before sipping his coffee. His line of thought was different from Frieda's.
He had thought that Frieda's close relationship with Aubree meant that Jonathan would be suspicious when Frieda recommended to him the company.
However, it seemed that Jonathan did not have his guard up around his younger sister.
With just a snap of his fingers, his company was now working with Queen Group.
In other words, he had established a relationship with the Farwell family.
With that, anything he wanted to do would be much easier.
Shawn narrowed his eyes in satisfaction before putting down his cup and turning to Frieda. “What would you like for lunch?”
He shifted the topic to a more private one.
Frieda froze for a few seconds before a blush crept onto her face. “I-I'm fine with anything. Something simple would do.”
Shawn smiled and nodded. “I'll make the arrangements, then.”
He then took out his phone to make a call.
Once he was done making the arrangements, he led Frieda to the car, and they headed to the city center.
One had to admit that Shawn was a master at flirting.
It was a simple lunch, but somehow, he could make it seem romantic.
Frieda knew that there was nothing between the two of them, but still, she felt as if they were on a date.
Shawn was delighted to see her flustered.
He enjoyed the feeling of courting women.
Women who easily responded to flirtations like Frieda made him feel accomplished.
Furthermore, once he won over Frieda's heart, he would have even more ease in carrying out his plans in the future.
“Oh, yes. I can't do nothing after you've helped me out so much,” Shawn started. “Other than the amount we've agreed on with Queen Group, I'll give you ten percent of the profits every month. What do you think?”
Frieda was even more elated to hear that, but she kept her expression composed as she inclined her head.
Shawn smiled in satisfaction before pretending to sound regretful as he said, “I like your character, but I have some work matters to attend to, so I'll have to be away for a period of time.”
Frieda stiffened.
If he leaves, my plan will fall through!
Right as she was gripped by disappointment, Shawn continued, “This is the key to the mansion. I hope you can help me keep an eye on my mansion while I'm away. Also, I hope I won't be a nuisance if I contact you.”
He made it seem as though there were some romantic feelings between the two of them.
Frieda froze for a few seconds before a joyous look appeared on her face as her heart skipped a beat.
“I will. Don't you worry.”
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1616-Speak To Her
Upon leaving the Damaris residence, Jack drove back to Damaris Group.
On the way back, he replayed the live stream of the press conference.
The sight of how loving Roxanne and Lucian were filled him with frustration.
Upon arriving at Damaris Group, he quickly noticed the strange looks his staff was giving him.
Evidently, news of Roxanne forming a partnership with Farwell Group had become public knowledge.
“What are you looking at? Go back to your desks!” Jack barked.
The crowd gradually retracted their gazes as they returned to their stations.
Upon storming back into his office, Jack slammed the door behind him.
“Mr. Damaris...” Kevin entered warily. “With regard to the medicinal herbs that we have reserved for the research institute, should we continue to set them aside?”
Previously, Jack had ordered it to be done, for he was certain that Roxanne would change her mind and collaborate with him.
Little did he expect her to form a partnership with Farwell Group and Queen Group instead.
Upon a long deliberation, he answered coldly, “Leave them as it is. Call Ms. Jarvis and arrange a meeting. I would like to speak to her.”
Even if Roxanne had come to an agreement with the other two companies, Jack didn't believe they would be able to send medicinal herbs over to the research institute on such short notice.
He still stood a chance as long as he could speak to her before she received the herbs.
Upon receiving the instructions, Kevin did as he was told.
Roxanne picked up the call without a moment's delay.
“Ms. Jarvis, I'm Mr. Damaris' assistant. I wonder if you have time to spare, as Mr. Damaris would like to have a chat with you.”
The press conference had just ended, and Roxanne was on the way home with Lucian.
Kevin's proposal caused her to look at Lucian by reflex.
In response, Lucian nodded, indicating that it was up to her.
Retracting her gaze and pursing her lips, Roxanne flatly replied, “Please tell Mr. Damaris that my decision is firm and there's nothing for us to discuss. I have found new partners to work with. The only thing left to talk about is compensation. That is something you should speak to my lawyers about.”
With that, Roxanne ended the call.
Satisfied with Roxanne's decisive response, Lucian held her hand with a smile.
Meanwhile, a grim look descended upon Kevin's face, causing Jack's expression to change drastically.
“What did she say? When does she have time?”
Kevin's voice began to quiver. “Ms. Jarvis mentioned that the only thing left to discuss is compensation. S-She wants us to talk to her lawyer about it.”
Jack's eyes narrowed as his voice turned frosty. “Say that again.”
Sensing his anger, Kevin steeled himself to repeat the statement despite the growing panic within him.
“That ungrateful b*tch!”
Having been reprimanded by Hector and almost losing the Damaris family's controlling stake, Jack was further enraged by Roxanne's rejection.
Kevin was cowed into silence, for this was the first time he had ever seen Jack this angry throughout his long career.
Subsequently, a deathly silence fell upon the office.
It wasn't until a long while passed that Jack waved his hand at Kevin. “You're dismissed!”
Heaving a sigh of relief, Kevin turned and scurried away.
Inside the office, Jack—with an insidious look in his eyes—got up from his desk and retrieved an aroma lamp from his drawer.
“Roxanne, I have given you plenty of opportunities, but you have spurned them all. Don't blame me for my ruthless methods!”
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1617-Jealous Of Your Own Daughter
After the press conference, Jonathan tactfully took his leave, for he didn't want to get in the way of the loving couple.
Lucian had planned to take Roxanne out to celebrate, but both of them decided to pick the children up from home instead.
After all, it had been a long time since the children had gone out with them due to their busy schedules.
“Daddy! Mommy!”
The moment they walked through the door, the children welcomed them excitedly.
Roxanne, in a good mood after resolving the matter, spread her arms with a smile but only ended up hugging Estella.
Archie and Benny were picked up by Lucian with one arm each.
As the two brothers were lifted into the air, they screamed in between their laughter, “We can fly!”
Lucian played along by swinging them through the air by their collar, while the brothers spread their arms to mimic the wings of a plane.
The three of them were enjoying themselves, but Roxanne was given a scare by the sight.
“Put them down. It's dangerous.”
Lucian naturally did as he was told. Even though Archie and Benny didn't have enough, they ran up to Roxanne's side obediently, not wanting her to worry.
“We watched TV today! You looked so handsome, Daddy! Mommy, you looked gorgeous too!” Benny complimented them.
In response, Roxanne gave his hair a tousle.
Lucian suggested in a deep voice, “Come, let's all go for a night out.”
The three of them jumped for joy at the news.
Roxanne and Lucian got the children changed into casual clothing before leaving home.
Lucian had made reservations at a high-end restaurant that was located on the top floor of the tallest building in the city center. The entire place was booked for their family alone.
As the five of them sat on the open-air rooftop, they listened to the soothing music in the background while admiring the city lights that looked like meteor showers raining on the ground.
“It's been a while since we last saw you, Mr. Farwell.” The manager served them personally, after which, he made light conversation with his guests. “This must be Ms. Jarvis. She's really beautiful. No wonder you always come here alone despite our establishment being the best place for a date. With such a pretty partner, I'm sure no one else will ever catch your eye.”
Roxanne, in a wonderful mood that day, couldn't help but tease Lucian by asking the manager, “Didn't he come here with Ms. Pearson? Otherwise, what was he doing here by himself?”
As if he had recalled something humorous, the manager waved his hand. “Come to think of it, it's true that Mr. Farwell didn't come here alone.”
The answer caused the smile on Roxanne's face to freeze.
She had started out wanting to tease Lucian, but from the manager's reply, it seemed that she might end up embarrassing herself.
The manager added, “Mr. Farwell would always come with Ms. Farwell, who loves the desserts here. I'll bring you two more portions of it later. I'm sure the boys would enjoy them too.”
The moment the manager finished, Roxanne's smile grew more awkward as she thanked him.
In an attempt to avoid eye contact with Lucian, she lowered her head to cut the children's steak for them.
Once the manager left, it was Lucian's turn to pull her leg in return. “What is it, Ms. Jarvis? Are you jealous of your own daughter?”
Roxanne stomped at his feet under the table.
“What does jealous mean, Mommy?” Estella gave Roxanne an innocent look.
Archie and Benny swiftly stuffed their sister's mouth with some salad so that she would keep her mouth shut.
Staring at how hard Roxanne was blushing, Lucian let out a soft chuckle.
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1618- Waiting For A Suitable Opportunity
After dinner, the three children thoughtfully went aside to play.
Lucian had informed the manager in advance that the children would be coming along, so the latter had set up a play area that was filled with toys and games where the kids had a great time playing.
Meanwhile, Lucian and Roxanne admired the night view from the open-air rooftop.
“Thank you.”
Roxanne turned to Lucian and gave him a grateful look.
He cocked his brow in response, and a mischievous glint flashed across his eyes. “Is that all?”
Roxanne racked her brains for a moment. “We'll have to give Mr. Queen a treat someday. As for you, I have not thought of what to get you as a gift.”
She obviously knew that a word of thanks wouldn't be enough to satisfy him.
Lucian hugged her from behind, trapping her between himself and the railing, before handing her a glass of red wine.
Roxanne proceeded to take it from his hand.
“I don't need any gifts.” Lucian's voice rang out beside her ear. “You have already given me what I wanted a long time ago.” He clinked his glass against hers. “If you really want to thank me...”
He then whispered something into her ear.
Blushing all over, Roxanne turned around and pressed her wineglass against his lips as she protested, “I need to rest!”
If I hadn't known him well, I would have assumed that he spent the last few years gallivanting all over. Otherwise, how did he end up with such a dirty mind?
Having achieved his objective, Lucian took a sip from her wineglass and leaned in to feed her through his lips.
Roxanne was bedazzled by the sudden kiss.
“Go ahead and get some rest today. We have plenty of opportunities in the future.” After giving her a kiss, he brushed his finger across her lips.
Upon regaining her senses, Roxanne wanted to return to their seats so as to put some distance between them.
However, Lucian put on his serious expression again. “That aside, when are you going to fulfill the promise you made to me?”
Roxanne hesitated. After a brief silence, she replied, “I was thinking of waiting for a suitable opportunity.”
Even though the concern on her face was obvious to Lucian, he had no idea what she was worried about.
Unable to bring himself to pressure her, he pulled her into his embrace. “It's fine. I don't mind waiting.”
After all, the air had been cleared after the press conference today.
With a grateful smile, Roxanne wrapped her arms around his waist.
Both of them were subsequently locked in a warm embrace underneath the moonlight.
Only when it was getting late did they head home together with the children.
After having a blast under the manager's watchful eye, the three of them fell asleep the moment they got into the car.
When she saw how adorable the sleeping children were and Lucian's serious expression while driving, Roxanne's face brimmed with bliss.
She was more than satisfied with the life she currently had.
The only outstanding matter was Sonya's inability to accept her and her sons.
It seems that I have to work harder to make it happen!
Soon, their car came to a stop at the door of the Farwell residence.
After carrying the children out of the car, Lucian and Roxanne carefully sent them back into their room.
All three of them were exhausted after the long day and didn't wake up at all.
Only after the children were settled in that the two adults returned to their room.
When Roxanne emerged from the shower and recalled Lucian's words from the rooftop, a sense of reluctance descended upon her.
After how Lucian had ravaged her the night before and their exhausting session in the afternoon, she could still feel the soreness in her hips.
However, if Lucian insists...
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1619-Just as she was concerned about her hips, Lucian emerged from the shower, causing her heart to skip a beat.
“You should get some rest. The last two days have been exhausting.” Lucian came over and pecked her on her lips.
Before Roxanne could react, Lucian raised his brows slightly. “However, if you want it, I'm more than happy to satisfy you.”
His words caused Roxanne's cheeks to burn as she tried to bury herself underneath the blanket.
Soon, when the sound of the hair dryer came to a stop, Lucian pulled up the sheets from another side. Upon getting into bed, he pulled her into his arms and fell into a deep slumber.
That night, both of them had a good night's sleep.
When Roxanne woke up the next morning, she felt fully reinvigorated.
It was then that Lucian received a call from Jonathan.
As Lucian was still in the bathroom, Roxanne pondered a moment before deciding to pick up.
“Jonathan, what can I do for you so early in the morning?”A look of surprise flashed across Jonathan's face when he heard her voice. “Roxanne?”Before she could react, he asked tactfully, “Is this a bad time? Where's Lucian?”Without thinking, Roxanne replied softly, “He's showering. What is it?”Showering?As his imagination began to run wild, Jonathan quickly suppressed his thoughts and explained earnestly, “I just wanted to let you know that the first batch of medicinal herbs has arrived. I'm currently at the port. Do you want to come over to examine them?”The news surprised Roxanne. “That's quick.”She had thought that it would take another two to three days.Jonathan didn't waste the opportunity to put in a good word for his good friend. “Lucian knew that you needed it urgently. That was why he bought the first batch under his own name before the contract was signed. He wanted to make sure you received the supplies as soon as possible.”Roxanne was naturally touched by the gesture.When Lucian coincidentally emerged from the bathroom, Roxanne intended to hand the phone over to him. However, he shook his head and put it on speaker instead.Jonathan continued, “To be honest, Lucian expended much effort to get this batch of herbs for you. His feelings for you are true, Roxanne. You must treasure him. It's rare to find a man as wonderful as he is!”Roxanne almost burst into laughter at Jonathan's exaggeration. However, Lucian's presence caused her to quickly suppress the urge to do so.Lucian, who couldn't bear to hear another word of it, barked, “Get to the point.”
Jonathan paused abruptly before saying sheepishly, “I've already asked Roxanne if she wants to come down here. I'm currently waiting at the port.”
When Lucian turned to Roxanne, she related what Jonathan had told her earlier. “I'll go over to check the goods. You send the children to kindergarten.”
Lucian had initially wanted to drive her to the port but decided against it when he thought about the children. “In that case, I'll pick you up in the evening.”
Roxanne agreed with a smile.
After both of them had breakfast, Lucian dropped the children off at the kindergarten, while Roxanne headed to the port.
Jonathan, who had been waiting there, began complaining again the moment he saw her.
Both of them took stock of the medicinal herbs while making idle chatter with each other.
Once they were sure everything was in order, the next step was to send the herbs to the research institute. There, they would be used in small batches to ensure that the final product was consistent with what was produced by Damaris Group.
After sending the medicinal herbs over, Jonathan took his leave, as the rest of the processes were considered industrial secrets.
Upon his departure, Roxanne threw herself back into her work.
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1621-Jack was vexed with the woman in his rearview mirror.
It has only been several days since I last met her. How did she become so sharp-tongued?
Jack's anger dissipated as his gaze swept past the aroma lamp hidden under the passenger seat. His eyes continued to gleam with hostility.
Soon, this mouth won't be able to utter a single word.
At that thought, Jack felt exhilarated.
“Don't you ever forget that it was my idea to develop this medicine, Ms. Jarvis. If it weren't for me, you wouldn't have gotten so far in the research.”
He kept his composure and started engaging her in small talk to delay the time.
Roxanne thought the car smelled of essential oil but quickly dismissed the idea since she could not locate the source. She ended up assuming the faint fragrance was Jack's car perfume.
She nodded gently upon hearing Jack's comment. “That's true. If you hadn't mentioned anything about it, I wouldn't have had the courage to begin the research. Anyhow, I depended on my own strengths and capabilities to develop the medicine and bring the idea to fruition.”
Initially, Roxanne was rather dubious about the whole matter too.
She debated multiple times if she should brand the medicine under the Damaris family name because Jack was the one who proposed it first.
However, Lucian rejected her idea without any hesitation.
He justified that Jack merely gave a passing comment and had not involved himself in any parts of the research process. The success of the medicine was solely owed to Roxanne's efforts.
He truly believed that Jack could have proposed that idea to anyone, but only Roxanne could have created the medicine.
If I were to listen to Jack and give him credit for the medicine developed, does it mean that I could also do the same and share a crazy idea with any Tom, Dick, and Harry, then request to be credited when the idea came true in the future? Obviously, this is absurd!
The medicine should be exclusively branded under Roxanne's name along with her research institute.
After Lucian knocked some sense into Roxanne, the latter became more confident and assertive when defending her idea in front of Jack.
That made Jack absolutely furious.
If it were not for the fact that the aroma lamp had not completely burned out, he would have opened the door and kicked Roxanne out of the car.
“Ms. Jarvis, you're truly... eloquent and full of wit. Why didn't I realize your talent in the past?” teased Jack.
Roxanne smiled but said nothing.
Then, a brief moment of silence filled the air.
Suddenly, Jack gazed at Roxanne and asked, “If I were to give in and sell the medicine at two hundred and seventy-one per box, would you be willing to work with Damaris Group?”
For some reason, Roxanne felt Jack's tone sounded a bit peculiar, as though he had a hidden agenda.
However, she could not pinpoint what it was. “No thanks. I'm sticking to my decision,” she expressed her opinion without thinking twice.
Immediately, Jack's expression turned grim.
By then, the aroma lamp had already extinguished itself.
“Then, there's nothing else for us to talk about. You may leave now, Ms. Jarvis,” Jack uttered coldly.
Roxanne nodded as she opened the door.
Before stepping out of the car, she could not help but leave him with a heartfelt reminder. “Mr. Damaris, I used to respect you a lot because you upheld the Damaris family's record of benevolence to good causes. I admired your superb medical skills and passion for saving lives. However, I didn't expect your ambition to be so different from mine. I thought that doctors should prioritize the needs of their patients, but all you cared about was making a profit.”
She sighed softly before getting out of the car.
The livid Jack watched her leave with an expression of sullen resentment.
Leaving The Country After Divorce Chapter 1620-Linda urged Roxanne to have her lunch after being swamped with work the entire morning.
Since she was dealing with a huge shipment of medicinal herbs, Roxanne thought of having a quick bite nearby before resuming her work.
A series of honks sounded just as she left the premises.
However, she did not bother about the noises made and kept walking ahead, which resulted in the car honking at her repeatedly.
It took Roxanne a while to realize the honks were directed at her.
She turned around and saw a car parked not too far from the entrance to the research institute. The window was half-opened, revealing Jack's face.
“Ms. Jarvis.” Jack grinned at her the moment she looked in his direction.
Frowning, Roxanne had no intention of approaching him. “I'm sorry, Mr. Damaris. It's a busy day at work. Please excuse me.”
With that, she turned and headed toward the restaurant.
Suddenly, the honks rang out again as Jack maneuvered the vehicle to trail her from the back.
“Ms. Jarvis, let's preserve our relationship even if there's no business deal between us. Aren't we friends? Can't you spare me a few minutes?”
Jack's voice and car honks rang out at the same time, making heads turn as people walked out from the research institute.
Roxanne dreaded the unnecessary attention. Hence, she stopped and said, “What is it that you want to tell me, Mr. Damaris? You can say it now.”
A cold glint flashed across Jack's eyes when she conceded. He opened the car door and said, “Come on in. Let's chat inside.”
Roxanne stood rooted to the spot and kept her guard up.
Jack smirked and said, “Are you worried that I might do something to you in broad daylight, Ms. Jarvis? Come on, we're both people of status. Furthermore, I still have to be mindful of the Damaris family's reputation.”
With that, he opened the car door wider to let her examine the interior.
He added, “I just can't stand the heat outside. It's much more comfortable to talk in the car. After all, I can't finish what I want to say in a few words.”
Roxanne seized the opportunity and checked his car thoroughly. She did not take the passenger seat. Instead, she entered through the back door and sat by herself.
The air conditioner was switched on, so she had to close both the car door and window.
“You can speak now,” she requested indifferently.
Hiding the coldness in his eyes, Jack glanced at the aroma lamp underneath the passenger seat and put on a regretful expression.“Ms. Jarvis, you acted really fast. I thought of looking for you in a couple of days, and perhaps we could still collaborate in one way or another. Little did I expect you would have signed a contract with Farwell Group and Queen Group already.”A layer of resentment and displeasure laced his tone.Knitting her brows, Roxanne stared at the pair of eyes looking back at her through the rearview mirror. “You might want to ask around and find out what hefty losses the research institute has suffered due to this incident, Mr. Damaris.”The factory had to shut down the production of medicines due to lack of supplies. Due to that reason, it demanded an exorbitant compensation from the research institute for delaying its production.Lately, Lucian suggested producing the medicines in one of Farwell Group's factories for free, but Roxanne rejected his offer.She felt that she had received tremendous help and support from Lucian. Therefore, she did not want to rely on him further.An imperceptible trace of frustration flashed past Jack's eyes. “There's no need to be like that, Ms. Jarvis. It was only a matter of time before the research institute suffered losses. Honestly, up till now, I still don't agree with the price you set for the medicine.”Ironically, she no longer felt anything toward his belittling remarks. “Your acceptance or rejection has nothing to do with me, Mr. Damaris. This is because I'm not collaborating with Damaris Group. Should you want to insist on your pricing, please go ahead and launch a new medicine yourself.”