Chapter 488 
On the lab bench, a beaker filled with liquid inside a set of sophisticated equipment was trembling wildly, and in a short while, it crashed to the ground with a snap, sending the clear solution splashing all around, drying up completely after a few hours, while the equipment continued to shake incessantly. 
In early August, a groundbreaking experiment spearheaded by Fred and his team started showing preliminary results, eaming them at nomination for the 13th “National Science Award“. Upon hearing the news, Xanthea couldn’t wait to share her excitement with Orion. 
At the headquarters of the Lockwood Group, on the top floor. 
“President Thomas, the marketing proposal your company submitted last quarter performed exceptionally well. We hope you’ll maintain this high standard so our collaboration in the second half of the year will run smoothly.” 
Leonard closed the proposal, and Roxanne responded with a smile, “It’s an honor for MR Group to work with both the Lockwood Group and the Marlowe. We’ll put our best foot forward in every aspect to ensure perfection. 
“That’s great to hear. Looking forward to a fruitful collaboration!” 
“Yes, to a fruitful collaboration!” 
“Shall I walk you out? My car’s just downstairs.” 

“Okay, thanks.” 
Roxanne followed him to the door, then suddenly stopped. 
“Mr. Marlowe, I just remembered some details about the plan I need to report to Mr. Lockwood. Maybe you should go ahead?” 
Leonard, noticing her sneaky glances filled with adoration towards Orion, raised his eyebrows slightly. 
He had hinted at her numerous times that Orion was already married and deeply in love, showing no interest in anyone else, but she seemed determined to learn the hard way. If that was what she wanted, he would let her be. 
“Alright” 
Leonard stepped out of the office, thoughtfully closing the door behind him, and also pressed his ear against the door. 
Roxanne gazed at the man behind the desk, the latter engrossed in the data reports, his striking features glowing in the bright morning light, exuding a magnetic charm she found irresistible. 
She nervously clenched her fists and approached him. 
“Mrs. Lockwood, you’re here? Shall I inform the president?” 
“No need, I want to surprise him!” 
Xanthea scampered up the stairs, pondering how to boast about her achievements, only to find Leonard eavesdropping at the office door 
Sneakily listening in, what gossip was he trying to get? She tiptoed closer, curiosity getting the better of her, and pressed her ear against the door. 
Leonard was bracing for the sound of a heart breaking when he suddenly saw a face of stunning beauty, momentarily dumbfounded. Who was this enchantress? She was breathtakingly_Wait! 
Just as Xanthea put her ear close to the door plank, she heard a strange female voice, “Mr. Lockwood, I have feelings for you.” 
Her eyes widened in an instant, along with Leonard who almost let out a yelp. 
“Xan_” 
Xanthea swiftly covered his mouth, her fierce/gaze waming him that any sound would seal his fate! 
Just a few days away, and some siren was already making her move, daring to encroach on her territory! 
Leonard went silent, thinking, “Fine, I’ll stay quiet. Or he’d look like on lookout duty for Orion. She’d understand everything once listening to the conversation inside 
“I know you’re married. The wedding was a global sensation, a lavish ceremony unlike any other, envied by many, including me 
Ms. Nightshade is indeed remarkable, born into a prestigious family, intelligent, stunningly beautiful, once a well–known actress in the entertainment industry, now a rising star in the scientific community. She’s truly your match.”