Chapter 1671: Did I Hear Him Right?

Lucian stood before Colby. "Are you remorseful for your actions?" he asked quietly.

Colby smiled bitterly. "What difference does it make? I will never forgive myself for nearly causing Dr. Jarvis's death through my selfishness." He looked up, his tone laced with self-hatred and disgust. "People are insatiable. Initially, I was content working with her. Then, I craved closeness, so I became her assistant. Soon, I wanted her to look at me as she looks at you. My desires escalated. I don't even know what I was doing."

Lucian studied him, assessing the sincerity in his words.

Colby sighed. "Looking back, both mistakes—starting the fire and sabotaging the lab—were reckless. A slight lapse in vigilance could have resulted in a major catastrophe. Besides Dr. Jarvis, other researchers could have died because of me. I deserve my punishment."

He had confessed his feelings to Roxanne on the day of his arrest, finally understanding the gravity of his actions as he was placed in the police car. However, contrition came too late. He hadn't considered appealing his conviction, choosing instead to serve his sentence to alleviate his guilt.

"What do you plan to do after your release?" Lucian asked unexpectedly.

Colby was stunned, seemingly never having considered it. He lowered his gaze for a moment. "Perhaps I'll become a traveling doctor, as my chances of employment at a research institute or hospital are slim. As long as people believe in me, I will provide free medical treatment to atone for my actions."

After observing him, Lucian believed Colby's words were genuine. "What about Roxanne?" he asked. "You still owe her an apology."

Guilt flashed in Colby's eyes. "I will apologize. She's still the best doctor I've ever known."

Lucian nodded.

Colby frowned, confused. "You don't believe me?"

"I do," Lucian replied, "which is why I want to make you an offer on Roxanne's behalf: to return to the research institute after your release."

Colby's eyes widened in disbelief. "What did you say?" After all he had done, Lucian wanted him to work alongside Roxanne again? Did he hear correctly?

"I'd like you to return to the research institute after your sentence," Lucian repeated calmly. "You were Roxanne's longest-serving assistant. While you've done wrong, you've made amends and shown genuine repentance. You're welcome to work with Roxanne again."

Colby remained speechless.

Lucian's expression hardened, and he changed the subject. "However, you will be under my supervision. I guarantee you'll regret any further transgressions."