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Novel Catalog
Chapter 42
Jonathan’s intentions were clear as day. Although Roxanne hadn’t explicitly brought up the matter of the reward, he knew exactly what was on her mind. His interest in discussing it was equally evident. Yet, Roxanne hesitated. She hadn’t yet completed the task she had set out to accomplish, and she didn’t feel right discussing a reward when Alfred’s condition wasn’t fully stabilized.
The Queen family had initially stated that they would offer medicine at half price to anyone who managed to cure Alfred. Given the circumstances, it felt premature to talk about it now.
When she remained silent, Jonathan simply stared at her, a knowing grin playing on his lips.
Roxanne returned the smile, though it was tinged with hesitation. “To be honest, I did come here with the understanding that your family was offering medicine at half price to whoever cured Old Mr. Queen. A friend of mine mentioned it,” she began, choosing her words carefully. “But now that he’s only just woken up, and his condition is still unstable, I don’t think it’s appropriate to discuss the reward just yet. Perhaps we should wait until his situation improves further.”
Jonathan’s smile widened as he listened to her. He wasn’t the least bit offended by her caution. Instead, his respect for her grew. “Dr. Jarvis, the fact that Grandpa is awake after everything he’s been through is nothing short of a miracle. As for his ongoing treatment, we have the utmost confidence in you. Because of that, I believe you’ve already earned the right for us to discuss your reward.”
Roxanne was momentarily taken aback by how much faith Jonathan had in her. She hadn’t expected such sincerity. Her expression softened as she regained her composure and took a seat on the couch.
“You were recommended by Dr. Galloway,” Jonathan continued, settling into the chair across from her. “When he came to see Grandpa before, he mentioned the situation at the research institute. However, since he couldn’t help, things just… stalled. Now that he’s sent you here, I can only assume it has something to do with the institute. Am I right?”
Roxanne nodded slightly, her gaze focused as she explained, “Yes. The research institute is currently working on several important projects, but progress has been delayed due to a lack of medicine. We’ve been looking for a supplier to work with, but everyone we approached in Horington turned us down. With no other options, Colby suggested we reach out to the Queen family, and here I am.”
She looked directly at Jonathan, her voice earnest. “Even without the reward, I’m committed to doing my best for Old Mr. Queen. The reward is just a bonus—it’s not my main priority.”
Jonathan couldn’t help but respect her even more as he listened. Her sincerity was undeniable, and it only deepened his admiration for her. “I apologize again for doubting you earlier. You truly are an exceptional doctor.”
Roxanne nodded, accepting his apology, her focus now sharpening as she waited for Jonathan to address the matter of the medicine supply.
Jonathan, eager to move forward, spoke up without hesitation. “Now that Grandpa has woken up after your treatment, we’d like to continue placing our trust in you to care for him. Regarding the reward from our family, I have the authority to make decisions. To start, I’ll arrange for the research institute’s first batch of medicine to be provided free of charge as a gesture of our gratitude. After that, our family is happy to enter a long-term agreement to supply the institute with medicine at half price.”
Roxanne took a moment to process his words, understanding the gravity of the offer. Jonathan’s confidence in her treatment had clearly been solidified after seeing the results with Alfred. Offering the first batch free of charge was both a way to help her institute immediately and to further reassure her of his family’s commitment.
The proposal was, undeniably, tempting. Not only would it resolve the institute’s immediate shortage, but it would also ensure that she could continue her work without distractions.
“All right,” Roxanne finally agreed, her expression resolute. “Please rest assured, I will do my best to cure Old Mr. Queen.”
Jonathan’s eyes softened with a mix of gratitude and determination. “I have no doubt that you will, Dr. Jarvis. We’re in good hands.”
