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Novel Catalog
Chapter 15
As Roxanne’s words hung in the air, Colby’s smile faded. His expression became serious, and he met her gaze with unwavering focus. “I’m already working on a solution for the issue,” he replied, his tone much more measured.
Roxanne frowned, sensing the weight behind his response. She remained silent, waiting for him to elaborate.
“I recently met with a supplier of medicinal ingredients and discussed a long-term collaboration. The contract is almost ready to be signed; we’re scheduled to finalize everything tomorrow afternoon. The delays up until now were caused by a number of factors. The research institute was still in its construction phase, and there were many administrative issues to address. Our staff is still settling into the system, and we’ve only just begun to get things running smoothly. On top of that, the medicinal ingredients here in Horington are mainly controlled by a few large suppliers, which has led to limited supply and inflated prices. It took a lot of time and effort to negotiate a better deal.”
Colby briefly summarized the situation, a hint of frustration creeping into his voice. He might be a researcher at heart, but he’d had to wear many hats as he dealt with the logistical challenges of setting up the institute.
Roxanne could tell that it hadn’t been easy for him. She wasn’t surprised by the complications; she had faced similar challenges during her time abroad. Nevertheless, the impact on the research institute was significant.
She gave him a sympathetic look. “I can only imagine how difficult this must have been for you,” she said, her tone softening.
A small smile tugged at the corners of Colby’s lips. “It’s all part of the job, really,” he replied, though his words couldn’t quite mask the weariness in his eyes.
Roxanne nodded thoughtfully. “And what’s the name of this supplier? If possible, I’d like to attend the contract signing tomorrow. Since I’ll be taking over the operations of the institute moving forward, it would be beneficial to meet them and have a few conversations.”
Colby didn’t hesitate. “Of course. You’re welcome to join me tomorrow.”
Roxanne gave a brief nod, signaling that she was satisfied with the plan.
The two of them made their way back to her office. As they entered, Roxanne glanced back, noticing Colby lingering near the door. “Is there something else?” she asked, her voice calm but curious.
Colby flashed a polite smile. “Actually, I wanted to ask you something. Are you free tonight? Since it’s your first day here, I’ve arranged a dinner to welcome you. It’ll be a chance for you to meet some of the people here at the institute.”
Roxanne’s brows relaxed at the gesture, but she quickly responded, “Thank you, but tonight’s dinner is on me. Since we’ll be working closely together, it’s important for me to show my sincerity as the person in charge.”
Seeing her agreement, Colby nodded, his expression brightening. “Alright, then. I’ll see you after work.”
Before he could leave, Roxanne called out. “Could you please bring over the documents I need to review later? I don’t have any urgent matters at the moment, so I can use the time to go through them.”
“Of course. I’ll bring them right over,” he said, quickly exiting her office.
A few minutes later, Colby returned with a stack of papers, carefully placing them on her desk. After a polite word, he excused himself and closed the door behind him.
Roxanne was now alone in her office. She pulled out her phone and dialed Madilyn’s number. “Maddy, are you free tonight? Could you help pick up Archie and Benny? I have something to attend to, and I’ll be home late.”
Madilyn didn’t hesitate. “No problem, I’ll take care of it,” she replied, not pressing her for further details.
Once the arrangements were made, Roxanne set to work, sifting through the documents Colby had brought her. It wasn’t long before Colby knocked lightly on her door, signaling the end of the workday.
“Time flies when you’re focused, doesn’t it?” Roxanne muttered to herself, grabbing her coat as she stood.
Colby smiled. “You really get immersed in your work. I can see how time just slips away.”
The two of them exchanged light conversation as they walked out of the building together. They made their way to Colby’s car, which was parked just outside.
As they drove through the city, Colby gestured ahead. “That’s the place,” he said.
Roxanne followed his gaze and saw a charming, vintage building, its intricate carvings catching the soft glow of the streetlights. Situated near the water, the restaurant exuded a cozy elegance. It was called The Waterfront.
After Colby parked, they walked toward the entrance, but just as they were about to step inside, a sleek Rolls-Royce glided to a stop on the roadside, its headlights casting a brief glow on the darkened street.
The driver got out and opened the passenger door. Lucian’s tall, slender figure emerged from the car, his eyes immediately narrowing as they locked onto the entrance of The Waterfront. He had spotted someone there earlier, a figure that looked unmistakably like Roxanne.
